Texters try to pick up pieces

MANILA, Philippines - Talk n Text tries to atone for its so-so form as it suffered its first loss Wednesday, going up against Barako Bull tonight in a bid to keep the solo lead in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup at the Cuneta Astrodome.

Alaska Milk, meanwhile, goes for a possible hold of the solo lead as it plays a surging Air21 side in the 7:30 p.m. main game.

The Express tightened up the race as they pulled the rug from under the Tropang Texters, 89-78, Wednesday.

Talk n Text coach Chot Reyes rued his troops didn’t come to play in that game.

“Hard work will always beat talent that doesn’t want to work. That’s what happened to us. We deserved to lose in spite of Donnell Harvey’s monster game,” said Reyes.

Curiously, the Express hurdled the Philippine Cup champs despite a measly six-point output from import Marcus Douthit.

The Express hope to keep going, looking to go above .500 mark as they gun for a third win against two losses versus the Aces.

Alaska, on the other hand, aspires for solo second place or even the lead should Talk n Text lose to Barako Bull earlier in the day.

“We’re feeling great. We didn’t feel this last conference. Our offense is already there. Hopefully, we can keep it up,” said Alaska chief playmaker LA Tenorio after they drubbed Meralco, 98-90, last Friday.

Alaska coach Joel Banal said they intend to stay above .500, winning at least three of their last four games if possible.

Barako hopes to hit the .500 mark and be within striking distance of the leaders.

Coach Junel Baculi said they could do that if the locals and import Rodney White work well together.

White debuted with 29 points, 13 rebounds, six assists and two steals with Willie Miller, Don Allado and Ronald Tubid providing big help as Barako checked a three-game slump, upending Powerade, 101-91, also last Friday.

The bottom line is that if the guys play well, we really can win,” Baculi said. 

Baculi specifically mentioned Miller.  “I don’t care even if the other teams hear this. Willie Miller is our barometer. If he plays well, most probably we’ll win,” Baculi said.