'Legends Cup' deemed a rousing success in Bacolod

Philstar.com

February 24, 2025 | 1:40pm

MANILA, Philippines — As expected, the AcroCity-backed Negros Basketball Association (NBA) Legends Cup was nostalgic and successful as former stars of the league took time out to once again wow their avid fans and renew kinship with former teammates and rivals on the court.

And the excitement reached its climax after former San Sebastian College star Django Rivera, University of the East’s Victor Villarias and one-time PBA MVP Kenneth Duremdes sparked Team Azcona-Sapporo to a 90-75 come-from-behind win over AcroCity on Saturday, February 22, at the Po Hang gym of Tay Tung School in Bacolod City.

It was not only a day of fun and joy as the men behind the rise of the league — led by the late Dodong Bascon — were remembered and honored by the very same players they helped and nurtured to make it big in the UAAP, NCAA and eventually in the PBA.

“It was a great fun to see these legends play and wow their fans again, hope they will continue to spread goodwill to their communities,” said Nats Francisco, corporate affairs head of Czark Mak Group.

Other big names for Sapporo squad, which fell behind by 17 points early in the first quarter, were Noli Locsin, Bong Ravena, Vernie Villarias, Arnold Gamboa, Ruel Bravo and Mike Mustre.

Even past stars now living abroad like Mustre, Villarias, Rivera, Jun Locsin and Freche Ang also came to help John Imperio and Bong Palo organize the event. Rudy Distrito did not play but came to support the event.

“Hope this kind of reunion games will also be held in other cities like Cebu and Davao,” said Mike Chua, general manager of Sapporo.

AcroCity, which beat Team Bascon-Apir to forge a title duel with Sapporo, was bannered by Toto Dojillo, Dongking Sasuman, Leo Bat-og, Nap Hatton and Gary Cortez.

Among those who played for Team Espino-CSA B-Upgrade were Rex Bayer, Nene Paderog, Sarian Ordan, Macoy Pineda and Godoy Cepriano. For Team Bascon-Apir were Palo, Peewee Demonteverde, Ahmit Teuel.

Some the ‘NBA legends’ will also have an exhibition game in Sipalay City.