Developmental League new season all set

MANILA, Philippines — Back-to-back reigning champion EcoOil-La Salle and runner-up Marinerong Pilipino-San Beda headline the cast as the PBA Developmental League ushers in its 2024 calendar with the Aspirants’ Cup on March 14 at the Filoil EcoOil Centre.

Also in the fray are Centro Escolar U, Gotorakku-St. Clare, Keanzel and CCI-Yengskivel for a six-team field in yet another exciting D-League tiff.

But all eyes are on the Green Archers and the Red Lions, who loom as the heavy favorites anew for a potential trilogy.

EcoOil-La Salle bested Marinero in three games two years ago in D-League’s return after a long hiatus due to the pandemic before scoring a sweep against the San Beda-reinforced club last year to build an impending dynasty.

Led by Most Valuable Player Kevin Quiambao, the Green Archers’ D-League dominance translated to their mother league UAAP after snapping a seven-year drought at the expense of powerhouse UP with a thrilling Game 3 comeback win to rule Season 86 for their 10th crown.