IF Meralco is unveiling a new player in Justin Brownlee against Macau in their EASL rematch, so are the Black Bears going into Saturday’s game in Ilagan, Isabela.
READ: Brownlee says wearing Meralco jersey 'feels different, bit weird’
Macau is bringing back hulking Sam Deguara in a bid to get even with the Bolts and break into the win column of the league’s Home and Away Season 3.
The 7-foot-6 Deguara suited up for the Black Bears when they debuted in the EASL last season and averaged 15.2 points and 12.8 rebounds in six games.
Obviously needing size, they decided to field back the import from Malta following their 92-74 loss to Meralco in Cebu City three weeks ago.
In the 18-point blowout, the Bolts clobbered Macau off the boards, 60-37, with import Ismael Romero leading the way with 28 rebounds, which now stands as the all-time record in EASL history.
The Black Bears are also looking to give star point guard Damian Chong Qui much-needed help in scoring even after he exploded for 25 points on 3-of-6 shooting from the three-point zone.
Meralco import Rondae Hollis-Jefferson put on a show in Cebu City by torching Macau for 34 points, highlighted by three towering jams, while Romero was also active on offense after finishing with 25 points.
Deguara’s first game back with the Black Bears coincides with Brownlee’s debut for the Bolts, who are eyeing to make it three in a row.
The winning streak put Meralco in solo second with an even 2-2 slate, behind Group B leader Taoyuan (2-1). Ryukyu Golden Kings occupy the No. 3 spot at 1-1, followed by Macau (0-1).
Only the top two teams from the three groups will advance to the playoffs.
Brownlee, Deguara meet again
Incidentally, Brownlee previously played against Deguara and the Black Bears during their friendly with Gilas Pilipinas prior to the FIBA Asia Cup tournament proper.
The 37-year-old Brownlee rallied back the Philippine side from an early 21-point deficit to take the 103-99 win at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Back then, Macau also paraded now-Gilas center Quetin Millora-Brown and PBA draftee Cole Micek.
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