Coach Leo Austria’s Lineup Challenge
North All-Star head coach Leo Austria acknowledged that his team holds a clear advantage in terms of player availability. The North squad will have 13 players available, giving them greater depth compared to their counterparts from the South.
However, Austria believes this advantage may also create a challenge. Since the All-Star game is designed as a showcase of talent, he wants to ensure that every player gets a fair amount of playing time. Managing minutes across a large roster makes strategic planning more complicated.
Austria explained that in an exhibition like the All-Star game, it’s difficult to map out the entire game plan because every player deserves an opportunity to perform and entertain the fans.
Roster Adjustment
Originally part of the North lineup, Zavier Lucero of Magnolia Hotshots will not be able to play in the game. Although he won’t suit up, Lucero still attended the event to support his teammates.
Taking his spot in the lineup is Gian Mamuyac of Rain or Shine Elasto Painters.
North All-Star Roster
The North squad features a strong and diverse lineup including:
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Japeth Aguilar
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Calvin Abueva
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CJ Perez
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Stephen Holt
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Adrian Nocum
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Chris Newsome
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Justin Arana
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Juan Gomez De Liano
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Justine Baltazar
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CJ Cansino
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Don Trollano
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Gian Mamuyac
With this group, the North team brings a balanced mix of veterans and emerging stars.
South All-Stars Face Short-Handed Situation
Limited Rotation for Coach Chot Reyes
On the other side, South All-Star head coach Chot Reyes will be working with a smaller roster of only nine players. Several key players will miss the event, including:
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Scottie Thompson
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Roger Pogoy
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Jericho Cruz
While the reduced lineup limits depth, Austria noted that it might actually help the South team. With fewer players to rotate, Reyes can manage playing time more easily, allowing key players to stay on the floor longer and maintain rhythm.
June Mar Fajardo Expected to Lead the South
Veteran Star Carrying the Load
Despite being undermanned, the South squad still boasts one of the most dominant players in the league, June Mar Fajardo. The multiple-time MVP is expected to lead the team and anchor their effort against the deeper North lineup.
Supporting Fajardo will be several talented guards and forwards, including:
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RJ Abarrientos
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Calvin Oftana
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Robert Bolick
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JB Bahio
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Leonard Santillan
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Alec Stockton
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Rey Nambatac
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Caelan Tiongson
Even with fewer players, the South team remains competitive due to its combination of skill, experience, and star power.
A Showcase of Talent for Fans
The PBA All-Star Game is more than just a competition—it is a celebration of basketball talent and fan appreciation. As the league commemorates its 50th season, the event highlights both established superstars and rising players who represent the future of Philippine basketball.
With the North squad enjoying greater depth and the South team relying heavily on its star players led by June Mar Fajardo, fans can expect an entertaining and high-scoring matchup. Regardless of the final result, the game promises to deliver excitement, highlight plays, and memorable moments for basketball fans in Candon City and across the country.
