Roaring Tigers target third win vs Giants

Coca-Cola, now on the rise following last-place finishes in the last two conferences, plays Purefoods Chunkee today, gunning for a third win in as many games in the Gran Matador Brandy PBA Philippine Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.

The marked improvement in the Tigers’ game doesn’t escape the attention of Purefoods coach Ryan Gregorio who expects a tough challenge in their 4:40 p.m. tussle.

Fiesta Cup champion Red Bull takes on Alaska Milk in the other game at 7:35 p.m., hoping to rebound from a sorry loss to San Miguel Beer Friday.

"They’re coming off two breakout games under coach Binky (Favis). They will be a big challenge for us," said Gregorio.

"Ali Peek in particular has been playing inspired game. I have to challenge my big men to limit Peek’s scoring," Gregorio added.

Although they swept Coca-Cola in two games in the Fiesta Cup, Gregorio is wary of the resurgent Tigers.

"It’s entirely a different story. They seem to have adjusted with the system put in place by coach Binky. They’re now very cohesive and they were very impressive in their last game against Alaska (Friday)," said Gregorio.

The Tigers were dominant in their first two games against the Air21 Express and the Alaska Aces, hacking out emphatic victories to gain the early lead in the all-Filipino tourney.

Peek stood out for the Tigers in both games with the hulking frontliner coming up with a double-double game with 21 points and 11 rebounds against the Express then making a perfect 12-of-12 field-goal shooting against the Aces.

With Billy Mamaril and Rafi Reavis also on a roll, Gregorio said his big men have a job cut out for them tonight.

"The good thing is that we have a one-week break before this Coca-Cola game so we’re able to make the needed preparations. I think we can compete," said Gregorio.

Actually, the Giants were also impressive in their debut against the Sta. Lucia Realtors last Wednesday, carving out an easy 104-88 victory.