History beckons Excelroof

MANILA, Philippines - Excelroof tries to make history today, going for the clincher versus Pharex B-Complex in a bid for a Cinderella finish in the Philippine Basketball League.

The 25ers face the embattled Maroons at 3 p.m., looking to put the wraps on the PBL PG Flex Placenta Cup crown before an expected huge crowd at The Arena in San Juan.

Before the game, the league pays tribute to players who shone brightest in the tourney. Pharex’s Vic Manuel, Excelroof’s Jimbo Aquino and Cobra Energy Drink’s Paul Lee are vying for the Best Player of the Conference honors.

The 25ers moved on the threshold of the championship on a stirring 97-87 overtime win over the Maroons Thursday.

The Maroons are expected to fight with great resolve today, but coach Ato Agustin and his troops said they would be ready.

“Our offensive rebounding will be the key to our success. If we can do better than what we did the last time, then we’ll have a good chance of closing out the series in Game Two,” said Agustin in contention to become a member of the league’s elite “double champion club.”

“Hopefully, we can complete a triumphant ride so I can complete a personal grand slam,” said Agustin, who won championships as a player with Yco and RFM in the early 90s.

Acknowledging Excelroof’s advantage in rebounding, Pharex coach Aboy Castro said they would make the necessary adjustments to put their rivals out of their comfort zone.

Castro also hopes Manuel to get back into groove after being shackled by Excelroof defenders in Game One.

The 6-foot-4 Manuel, who averaged 17 points and 8.9 rebounds in the early phases of the tourney, was held to 10 points Thursday.

“We’re prepared for a physical game. That’s one reason why we outplayed them in the middle at crunch time,” said Agustin.

Ian Sangalang, Calvin Abueva and Gilbert Bulawan alternated on defense versus Manuel while Aquino spearheaded their attack as the 25ers pulled off the amazing come-from-behind win in the series opener.