Alaska faces another acid test versus TnT

MANILA, Philippines - Erstwhile unbeaten front-runner Alaska Milk, stopped by Rain or Shine the last time out, hopes to get going again as it takes on Talk n Text in the KFC PBA Philippine Cup at the Araneta Coliseum today.

The Aces are determined to get back on track after their six-game streak came to an end on an 81-86 upset by the Elasto Painters last Friday.

Alaska and Talk n Text, the title protagonists in the last all-Filipino tourney, clash at 7:30 p.m. succeeding the 5 p.m. tiff between joint seventh placers Burger King and Barako Bull.

Rain or Shine warms up for its Wednesday tussle with Coca-Cola as it takes its turn playing Smart Gilas at 2:30 p.m.

“Coming from our loss to Rain or Shine, our resiliency will certainly be tested by Talk n Text. But feel we’re prepared for what Talk n Text will throw at us,” said Alaska coach Tim Cone.

“Harvey Carey is still doubtful to start and based on our records, current stats and level of play, we are the clear underdogs,” said Talk n Text coach Chot Reyes.

The TnT mentor is trying to downplay their chances against the Aces although the Tropang Texters are setting out for the game enjoying high morale coming from back-to-back wins over Coca-Cola Tigers and the Barako Bull Energy Boosters.

Six teams are now closely bunched atop the leader- board with Alaska leading the pack at 6-1 followed by San Miguel at 6-2, Barangay Ginebra at 5-2, Talk n Text at 4-2 then Purefoods and Sta. Lucia at 4-3.

The Aces’ No. 1 motivation is to hold on to the solo lead nearing the halfway mark of the double-round elimination phase.         – Nelson Beltran