HOOPS

Abra taps Diouf for EASL bid

Mark Escarlote · Sep 5, 2026, 1:46 AM

Malick Diouf and DJ Fenner are expected to form an explosive tandem when the Abra Solid North Weavers compete in the East Asia Super League. — PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF ABRA WEAVERS

Abra brought in size and power by tapping the services of naturalized player Malick Diouf to reinforce its lineup for the East Asia Super League (EASL) 2026-27 Season opening next month.

The 6-foot-11 Diouf’s much-needed inside presence bolsters the Weavers’ chances of making an impact in the prestigious continental club league.

Diouf, a former University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) champion and Most Valuable Player from University of the Philippines, will be teaming up with reigning Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) MVP Dave Ildefonso and Fil-Am DJ Fenner.

The Weavers open their campaign with a home stand against Hong Kong Eastern on 3 October at the 16,000-capacity SM Seaside Cebu Arena in Cebu City.

Game time is set at 7 p.m.

Abra’s participation marks the first time for MPBL to represent the country in the tournament featuring the region’s champion teams.

The Weavers are the reigning champions and owners of the best record (21-2) in the ongoing SportsPlus MPBL 2026 Season elimination round.

“The Abra Weavers have earned this opportunity through their championship season, and I couldn’t think of a better way to introduce them to Asia than by opening the EASL season in front of Filipino basketball fans,” MPBL founder and chairman Manny Pacquiao said.

“This is another proud milestone for the MPBL and Philippine basketball, and we’re excited to see Abra represent our league on the regional stage.”

The Weavers are also leaning on 2025 Rookie of the Year Raven Gonzales, Jake Figueroa, Tucker Molina, Mike Ayonayon and Encho Serrano.

Also making their initial EASL stint are reigning B. League champion Nagasaki Velca, KBL finalists Goyang Sono Skygunners, TSG GhostHawks of Taiwan’s P. League+, and Macau Hou Chon, which will clash with Taipei Fubon Braves in the 4 p.m. in the inaugural match.

Completing this year’s cast are Taoyuan Pauian Pilots, Ryukyu Golden Kings, Alvark Tokyo, KBL champion Busan KCC Egis, and Mongolia champion Ulaanbaatar Xac Broncos.

Last year, Meralco represented the Philippines in the EASL Group B and failed to advance to the postseason with a 3-3 record.

In the 2024-25 Season, the San Miguel Beer went winless in six starts in Group A, while the Bolts finished 2-4 in Group B.