MANILA, Philippines - NLEX kicks off its drive for a fifth straight crown as it plays Big Chill at the start of the PBA D-League Foundation Cup today at the San Juan Arena.

Though the rest of the field, including three newcomers, are out to foil their bid for another crown, the Road Warriors remain the heavy favorites after romping off with the Aspirants’ Cup title for the second time two weeks ago.

The 4 p.m. match between NLEX and Big Chill marks the first meeting between the two teams since the Road Warriors blasted the Superchargers, 91-67, in the elimination of the Aspirants’ Cup last November.

Overall, NLEX have won its last five meetings with Big Chill dating back to the semifinals of the 2012 Aspirants’ Cup.

“Our past history with Big Chill were already part of the past and will not in any way be a factor in today’s game,” said NLEX coach Boyet Fernandez.

In other matches, Cebuana Lhuillier takes on Boracay Rum at 12 noon while newcomer Jumbo Plastic test the mettle of Fruitas in the second game at 2 o’clock.

Big Chill, meanwhile, vows to come out strong as it tries to redeem itself from a lackluster showing in the last conference.