STREAKING Barangay Ginebra and defending champion TNT shoot for win No. 6 when they take on separate foes in the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup on Friday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.
The Gin Kings, tied for third to fourth spots with Meralco Bolts at 5-2, clash with the Blackwater Bossing (2-6) at 7:30 p.m.
The Tropang 5G, who currently occupy fifth to sixth spots with Phoenix Fuel Masters (5-3), battle the Macau Black Knights (1-7) at 5:15 p.m.
Ginebra coach Tim Cone said the team’s final games will be critical as the Gin Kings try to secure a spot in the quarterfinals, and if possible, a twice-to-beat incentive.
“We have several important few games ahead of us and Blackwater is coming up, then Titan comin up,” Cone said. “We just got to really come out and take care of our business and making sure we are ready to play those guys.”
Cone said Ginebra can’t take Blackwater lightly.
“Any team in the PBA can beat you up. We have to be cognizant of that and be prepared for each game,” he said.
Sure, the Gin Kings have won their last three assignments, but they are facing a Bossing side that is coming off a 126-120 upset against the San Miguel Beermen.
That win was Blackwater’s second in eight games, but it was a victory that revitalized the team’s playoff hopes.
Patrick Aquino also got his first win since being appointed as the Bossing’s interim coach, replacing Jeff Cariaso.
TNT, meanwhile is looking to make a quick turnaround after its stunning 97-92 loss to Converge.
The Tropang 5G can’t afford to merely rely on Bol Bol, who had 32 points and 16 rebounds against the FiberXers.
Macau’s confidence is at a high, after punching in its first win via a 119-107 win against Titan Ultra a few days ago. RICHARD DY
