MANILA – MLV-Zamboanga Valientes are aiming for a better performance in the 2026 Dubai International Basketball Invitationals with a lineup built around size, experience and former professional standouts.
Former Barangay Ginebra San Miguel Kings center Gregory Slaughter said the Valientes’ souped up roster gives them a chance to compete despite limited preparation time.
“I like the composition of our team. We are big and then we have some of the best guards out there,” said Slaughter, who will share the frontcourt with Maodo Malick Diouf, Vic Manuel, and ex-NBA player Anthony Bennett.
“The competition in the Middle East is tough but owing to the experience of the players in this team, and our size, I think we have a very good chance,” added the Cebuano big man.
The Valientes’ projected starting five includes Slaughter, Bennett, and ex-PBA players Manuel and Terrence Romeo, and naturalized player candidate Diouf. The team is also reinforced by 7-foot-5 import Sam Deguara.
“That’s what I like about this team, most of the guys out there are still fighting for slots in different leagues like the PBA. So, expect them to give it their all,” Slaughter said.
Other former PBA players on the team include Mike Tolomia, Nick Demusis and Dennis Santos. The roster also features young prospects Forthsky Padrigao and Bryan Manuel.
Zamboanga is drawn in Group B alongside Al Ahli Tripoli of Libya, Club Africain, Alkarama Sport Club and Sports Club Beirut in the single round-robin elimination round. Group A consists of the UAE National Team, Al Nasr Club, Homs al Fida, Al Ittihad Libya and Al Wahda.
Team owner Junnie Navarro said expectations are being managed as the Valientes focus on steady progress.
“No pressure on the team, but I hope we get to reach our goal one-by-one. We have high regards for this team and I am sure the Valientes can show the resilience known to Filipinos,” Navarro said.
Navarro, who has partnered with Australia-based Filipino businessman Mike Venezuela, said the team’s participation also aims to provide international exposure to Filipino players.
“Our goal here is to expose more Filipino, especially Zamboanguenos to the world stage, as you know, we have so many athletes from our city who have brough honor to the country in the exciting world of sports,” he said./PN
