CinemaBravo

Following a promising run in the preseason, the Quezon City Black Bulls are gearing up for the eighth season of the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL), with their campaign set to begin on April 10. The team is approaching the new season with a focused mindset, taking it one game at a time after finishing with a balanced 4-4 win-loss record.

Team owner John Christopher Tan expressed his appreciation to Quezon City First District Congressman Juan Carlos “Arjo” Atayde for helping identify and support the city’s homegrown basketball talents. These players formed the core of the squad that competed in the preseason.

“So proud of all the players that played in the D1 League, and we are happy that we discovered them, and most of them have studied in the Gardner College. They showed to everyone that they are all worthy playing in a high level competitive pro league,” Tan said.

“I think this is the right time to aim for greatness and prove themselves they are ready for the MPBL.”

Asked if what is his expectations from the team, Tan said: “I expect that they will give their 100 percent one game at a time, offensively and defensively, in both ends of the court. They will play all their hearts out here.”

He also praised the young lawmaker and actor for hosting the D1 League, which helps develop grassroots talent in the city, particularly from Quezon City and Gardner College, including Pat Buena, MJ Joson, Kenz Diokno, Joeben Loria, Ryan Arceo, Jake Agoncillo, Gab Salazar, and Nonon Lastra, among others.

QC will be coached by rising head coach Jayv Olea.

Aside from Buena, Joson, Diokno, Arceo, Agoncillo, Lastra, and Salazar, the Black Bulls’ roster also includes 6-foot-6 Jeff Morillo, Aldave Canoy, playmaker Ryan Costelo, Clark Derige, 6-foot-5 Jay Gadon, Kobe Monje, Aeron Marvin Bagunu, Kai Espinosa, Joe Benzon Joven, Bryan Rosalin, Charles Dela Cruz, Josh Roque, former Blackwater player Rey Publico, and Ammar Cosari.