The MPBL’s Abra Weavers are set to represent the Philippines in the East Asia Super League (EASL), tipping off later today at the newly inaugurated SM Seaside Cebu Arena. For now, they carry the tag of being the team that replaced the PBA’s Meralco Bolts as the country’s representatives. But for star guard Dave Ildefonso, that label doesn’t sit well—he insists the Weavers are not mere replacements, but rightful contenders.
“This league is very competitive, and nakita rin naman na yung past PBA teams they really had a tough time playing against the other countries, but malaki ang tiwala ko sa team,” Ildefonso said ahead of their debut against Hong Kong Eastern. “Nandito kaming lahat to compete at para mapakita namin na ‘di kami replacement kumbaga, chosen pa rin kami to compete.”
Ildefonso will lead the charge alongside his brother Shaun, Encho Serrano, DJ Fenner, Drex Delos Reyes, and Trucker Molina.
Reinforced Abra Weavers
Joining the Weavers for their EASL debut are four reinforcements: naturalized player Malick Diouf, former Rain or Shine import Jaylen Johnson, 6‑foot‑11 center Micheal Eric, and Jordanian national team guard Freddy Ibrahim.
It marks the first time the MPBL champions will play with imports, and coach Yong Garcia is relieved that the new additions are not only talented but quick to adapt.
“Iyon ‘yung disadvantage namin, ‘yung walang import in our team. The other teams talagang matagal nang naglalaro with their imports, so ‘yung chemistry nandun na,” Garcia explained. “We are lucky dahil ‘yung nakuha nating mag‑reinforce for Abra is madaling nakaka‑catch up doon sa sistema. Hopefully makatulong sila ng malaki sa team.”
Johnson and Ibrahim bring proven credentials, with Johnson steering Rain or Shine to the PBA Commissioner’s Cup semis and Ibrahim regarded as one of Asia’s finest point guards. Eric and Diouf, meanwhile, add size and paint presence to complement Abra’s locals.
‘Bilog ang Bola’
Given how PBA teams struggled in past EASL campaigns, the Abra Weavers know they face a tough road. But Ildefonso remains unfazed, believing his team has more than a fighting chance.
“Laging bilog ang bola. No matter what happens, kahit high‑tier team, low‑tier team. We always have a chance no matter how small or big the chances,” he said. “Ang importante doon may chance kami.”
The Abra Weavers get their EASL baptism of fire tonight against Hong Kong Eastern at the SM Seaside Cebu Arena. Tip‑off is at 7:30 p.m.
