All team governors and officials named back-to-back Philippine Cup champion San Miguel Beer as the team to beat in the upcoming Philippine Basketball Association Season 42 Philippine Cup that begins on Sunday at the Araneta Coliseum. Meralco alternate governor Ryan Gregorio also sees SMB as the most formidable team because of the presence of three-time Most Valuable Player June Mar Fajardo, Arwind Santos and Marcio Lassiter. “For as long as Fajardo is playing, San Miguel Beer is up there,” said Gregorio, also a former Purefoods and Meralco coach. Barangay Ginebra team governor Alfrancis Chua named Alaska, Talk ‘N Text, San Miguel Beer and Rain or Shine as toughest contenders while Blackwater coach Leo Isaac sees strongest opposition from San Miguel Beer, Rain or Shine, Ginebra and Meralco. The Philippine Cup will open on Sunday with the Star Hotshots playing against reigning champion San Miguel Beer at 6:30 p.m. after the 4 p.m. opening ceremony.

Source: Manila Times November 14, 2016 15:04 UTC