Shock win boosts Welcoat's stock

The scenario going into the semifinals gets even more exciting following Welcoat Paint's 61-59 victory over Chowking, behind Anton Villoria's game-clinching triple Sunday night in the second Yakult-PBL Challenge at the Makati Coliseum.

The win installed the Paintmasters as the top team after the elimination and will enjoy the twice-to-beat incentive along with Ana Water Dispenser, Red Bull and Blu Detergent in the quarterfinal round starting Thursday.

It could be an easy task going up against Kendi Mint in the crossover quarterfinals, but Welcoat will face a big test against rival Red Bull in the best-of-three semifinals if the latter also wins over Dazz Dishwashing Paste.

The other match will be disputed by Ana if it prevails over Boom Detergent, and the winner of the quarterfinal match between the twice-to-beat Blu and Chowking.

"It will be a big risk. The scenario leaves either Welcoat or Red Bull for the first finals slot. But we're ready to face the challenge. The victory (Sunday night) proved their character and their fighting spirit. They did not give up until the last second," said Welcoat coach Junel Baculi.

Red Bull got nothing to lose. The Energy Kings equally needed the crown before they join the PBA. But if they lose, it will also be an advantage for the team to go full blast in their preparation for the PBA.