Reinforced by two more former Philippine Basketball Association players, the Filipino-Chinese Veterans Basketball Association leaves for Chang Mai, Thailand today determined to regain its lost glory when the ASEAN Veterans Basketball Tournament stages its 28th edition starting tomorrow.
FCVBA’s three-year reign in the annual event was snapped last year, prompting the association’s “godfathers” Terry Que of Rain or Shine and Jimi Lim of Ironcon Builders to tap the services of former Crispa player Joel Gomez and Roberto Poblete.
“Both players are good additions to the team so we are confident we can regain our title,” said Lim.
Former Crispa guard Bong dela Cruz has long been a regular fixture in the association having played in the 50-and-above and 60-and-above divisions before.
Other members of the team, according to Que, are former Adamson captain Ching Ka Lee, Antonio Go, Zotico Tan, William Lao, Alfonso Kaw, and Andrew Ongteco.
“I think we are much stronger this year so we have a very good chance,” said Que.
FCVBA has a rich winning tradition in the league, stamping its class not only in the 65 and 60 but also in the 50-and-above.
The association, however, will not field teams in the 60s and 50s this time.
When it hosted the event three years ago, it won all four age categories as Kenneth Duremdes led the 40-and-above squad to the championship.
PBA four-time MVP Alvin Patrimonio, Allan Caidic and Jerry Codinera suited up for the 50s that easily topped their division.