By ADRIAN STEWART CO
The AcroCity-backed Negros Basketball Association Legends Cup turned out nostalgic and successful, as former league stars reunited to entertain their loyal fans and rekindle camaraderie with former teammates and rivals on the court.
The excitement reached its peak when former San Sebastian College standout Django Rivera, University of the East’s Victor Villarias, and one-time PBA MVP Kenneth Duremdes led Team Azcona-Sapporo to a thrilling 90-75 come-from-behind victory over AcroCity at the Po Hang Gym of Tay Tung School in Bacolod City on Saturday, February 22.
Beyond the on-court action, the event was also a heartfelt tribute to the men who played a pivotal role in the league’s rise — most notably the late Dodong Bascon.
Players who once flourished under his guidance took a moment to honor his legacy, reflecting on how he helped shape their careers in the UAAP, NCAA and, eventually, the PBA.
“It was great fun to see these legends play and wow their fans again. I hope they will continue to spread goodwill in their communities,” Nats Francisco, corporate affairs head of the Czark Mak Group, said.
Team Azcona-Sapporo, which trailed by as many as 17 points in the first quarter, also featured notable names, such as Noli Locsin, Bong Ravena, Vernie Villarias, Arnold Gamboa, Ruel Bravo, and Mike Mustre.
Even former stars now based abroad, including Mustre, Villarias, Rivera, Jun Locsin, and Freche Ang, returned to help organize the event alongside John Imperio and Bong Palo.
Meanwhile, Rudy Distrito, though not suiting up, showed his support from the sidelines.
“Hopefully, reunion games like this can also be held in other cities like Cebu and Davao,” Mike Chua, general manager of Sapporo, said.
AcroCity, which secured a finals berth by defeating Team Bascon-Apir, was led by Toto Dojillo, Dongking Sasuman, Leo Bat-og, Nap Hatton, and Gary Cortez.
Other notable participants include Rex Bayer, Nene Paderog, Sarian Ordan, Macoy Pineda, and Godoy Cepriano for Team Espino-CSA B-Upgrade, while Team Bascon-Apir featured Palo, Peewee Demonteverde and Ahmit Teuel./ASC, WDJ