Defending champion Senate goes for a 2-0 start while former champion Philippine National Police tries to rebound from a shock defeat as the 7th UNTV Cup resumes on Sunday at the GSIS gym in Pasay City.
The Senate Defenders collide with the GSIS Furies at 5 p.m. with the winner taking the early Group A lead in the annual tournament for public servants.
Mentored by Mike Fermin, the Defenders are hoping to follow up a 73-70 win over newcomer Philippine International Trading Corporation while the Furies are fresh from a stunning 87-83 win over the PNP Responders.
Senate’s opening day win was worthy to remember as Sen. Manny Pacquiao buried two triples right in the first frame to highlight a 12-point performance.
Aside from Pacquiao, also expected to deliver the goods for the Defenders are Senators Joel Villanueva and Sonny Angara, former PBA player Jeff Sanders and Gari Sevilla.
On their part, the Furies will have to squeeze the best from James Abugan and Rene Boy Banzali to have a chance of stopping the Defenders.
The Responders will have the chance to avenge their defeat to the Furies when they clash with PITC Global Traders at 3:30 p.m.
Clashing at 2 p.m. are National Housing Authority and PhilHealth with the former seeking the early Group B lead after pulling off an impressive 73-68 win over the Judiciary Magis.