Those who picked Toyota Otis said the Sparks have a deeper bench and the defensive spunk that normally make a championship squad.
Those who chose Harbour Centre said the Port Masters have more experience and boast of players who can deliver in the clutch.
"It’s a series that is hard to predict but I feel it will go the distance," said Magnolia coach Koy Banal, who steered the San Miguel Corp.-owned franchise to two PBL crowns.
"Toyota had paid its dues so it’s about time for the Sparks to win a championship," he added.
Hapee Toothpaste mentor Junel Baculi, who had 10 final stints, winning seven of them, agreed that this is Toyota Otis’ time to shine.
"They have a deeper bench and they have one of the league’s best players," said Baculi, referring to Fil-Am Joe Devance, a former NCAA 1 University of Texas-El Paso standout who currently leads the MVP race.
That is, Baculi clarified, if the series goes the full route. — Joey Villar