The San Juan Knights are ready to defend the throne: Season Preview

Talk about fighting for the crown.

The San Juan Knights looked finished in the last game of the MPBL Datu Cup Finals against the Davao Occidental Tigers. But just like the knights of medieval times, they fought to the end. As a result, they snatched the victory and the title. The knights are kings of the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League.

They are entering the Lakan Cup with a bullseye on their backs. However, the wards of Coach Randy Alcantara are ready to defend their crown. The reigning champions will do that with a mix of holdovers and new talent.

A peek at San Juan’s guard rotation

Returning to the fold are Datu Cup Finals MVP Mike Ayonayon and sniper John Wilson. If it was a true army, Ayonayon is the platoon commander of their slashers and defenders. Aside from exploiting open lanes, he will clamp down on opposing guards together with Jhonard Clarito, Cedric Pelayo, and Michael Salvado.

Clarito and Pelayo are the typical two-way players who can shut their man down on defense and can knock down occasional shots. Salvado is the best option for instant offense. The Knights will also get a dash of speed from Mapua’s Lawrence Victoria.

Meanwhile, Wilson leads the artillery from long range with CJ Isit and Orlan Wamar. Andrew Estrella also joins the shooters unit after transferring from the Quezon City Capitals. But their biggest boost in perimeter shooting will come from Renzo Subido who had a remarkable UAAP Season 81 with the UST Growling Tigers.Looking at the Knights’ forwards

Not only is Mark Cardona known as Captain Hook. Rather, he is also the captain of the forwards. He may not be the main scoring option in the squad but he can still easily put in double figures every game. While Cardona is the slick forward, the Knights will get a lot of bulk from Jamil Gabawan and transferee Jeff Tajonera.

Both Gabawan and Tajonera can also play center in small line-ups. Completing San Juan’s forward rotation are Lester Reyes, Art Patrick Aquino, and Joseph Mark Marquez.

Gazing at the centers

If you have players who can shoot the lights out and dash to the hoop, you would need some who can initiate scoring from the paint. That’s Larry Rodriguez’ main responsibility. Then and now, he has proven to be a bruiser with a sweet medium range jumper.

But he won’t be alone in this journey because San Juan has signed Jessie Saitanan who is not afraid to bang bodies with other MPBL big men. Expect Rodriguez to be more of the stretch center while Saitanan will be sent in mainly for defense. Joseph Ubalde is also part of the henchmen at the middle.

However, the Knights’ upgrade is not yet finished. Joining the defending champions are Mapua big men Warren Bonifacio at 6’ 5” and Christian Bunag who stands 6’ 7”. Aside from putbacks and shots near the goal, their height can alter the shot of those who dare challenge them.

With a roster as deep as this, it’s no wonder that the San Juan Knights are favorites to go all the way once again. But their mission to defend their throne will start by going up against a formidable Bacoor City Strikers squad. That match-up between Finals MVP Ayonayon and Season MVP Gab Banal is a highly anticipated one.