Bolts’ airtight defense to be tested vs TNT
Meralco’s rock-solid defense will be tested against the offensive prowess TNT KaTropa today in Season 43 Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Commissioner’s Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.
Fresh from halting Alaska’s seven-game winning run last Sunday (89-74), the Bolts are now eyeing the two twice-to-beat quarterfinal incentives in their 7 p.m. encounter with the KaTropa.
GlobalPort will face Columbian Dyip in the 4:30 p.m. opener.
“Our defense will be put to the test as TNT is the No. 1 offensive team in the PBA,” said Norman Black through a text message. “Closing out on their shooters, while also trying to control (Joshua) Smith in the paint will also be our biggest challenges.”
Meralco import Arinze Onuaku scores against Alaska import Tony Campbell during a Season 43 PBA Commissioner’s Cup game at the Araneta Coliseum. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
The 6’8 Arinze Onuaku, who is averaging 18.7 points, 17.8 rebounds, 5.5 assists and 1.6 blocks in nine games will be a formidable force in the frontline. Chris Newsome, Jared Dillinger and Baser Amer will run the team’s offense at both ends of the floor.
“It is an important game for both teams. A win would place us one step closer to the twice to beat advantage and we’re just trying to win games,” Black added.
TNT, at fourth place with 6-3 win-loss record, desperately needs a win to stay in contention for one of the two twice-to-beat bonuses.
“Both teams needing to win for twice to beat advantage. We have to want it more than Meralco,” said TNT coach Nash Racela.
Meanwhile, the Batang Pier wants redemption from an embarrassing 108-135 loss to Phoenix.
“Past is past and I don’t want to talk about it. We were outplayed last game so all we can do now is played well because that game is very important,” said GlobalPort coach Pido Jarencio.
Columbian Dyip also suffered a 107-134 beating from Ginebra.
“It is a must win and then we have to take care of business there—we just got to let things fall on the right place to get into the playoffs,” said Columbian Dyip import John Bailey Fields 3rd, adding that his sprained knee has already healed.
“I’ll be ready on Friday. If I can walk, I can’t miss a game.”
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