By Jerome Lagunzad
Former University of the East star Marcy Arellano hopes to serve as the guiding light to his younger teammates as he suits up for newcomer Mila’s Lechon in the PBA D-League Aspirants Cup that gets going on Jan. 18 next year.
The 5-foot-9 Arellano, 31, is embracing a new – and bigger – role this time as one of the team’s vocal leaders in his another stint in the developmental league.
“Parang kuya na nila ako dito. Marami rin kasing mag bago sa team kaya dapat andu’n ‘yung guidance ko sa kanila,” said the proud Manila native, who was named as the UAAP Rookie of the Year back in 2004, before the team’s practice recently.
With Mila’s Lechon serving as one of only two non school-based teams alongside Marinerong Pilipino in the 13-team cast, Arellano admitted they will have their hands full in terms of solidifying their team chemistry.
But Mila’s Lechon management, according to Arellano, should figure out first who will make it to the final roster with less than a month to go before the season-opening tournament.
So far, former UE standout Clark Derige, Far Eastern University guard Axel Iñigo and Mapua’s backcourt tandem of Andoy Estrella and Leo Gabo are shoo-ins along with veterans Ken Acibar, Mike Parala and Mark Sarangay.
“Hindi naman kami ganun kalakas. Magdi-depend pa kami sa samahan at kung paano magje-jell ang team unlike yung mga school-based na matatagal ng magkakasama,” said Arellano. “And that’s the challenge for us lalo na sa akin, kung paano kami magiging isa.”