Big Chill faces Blackwater; NLEX vs Hog’s in Final 4

MANILA, Philippines - NLEX takes on Hog’s Breath Café while Big Chill battles Blackwater Sports today in a pair of tough match-ups kicking off the PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup Final Four at The Arena in San Juan. 

“It will be a tough series. We really have to take care of the ball and play solid individual and team defense if we want to win,” said NLEX coach Boyet Fernandez, whose wards lorded it over the field in the elims to clinch the top seeding and advance outright in the semis.

Garvo Lanete missed the Road Warriors’ last two games with a shoulder injury with the league’s scoring leader still uncertain of suiting up in their 2 p.m. encounter.

“He’s status is still day-to-day. I’m keeping my fingers crossed that he’ll be able to play on Tuesday,” said Fernandez.

Hog’s Breath surprised NLEX, 83-78, in the elims but coach Caloy Garcia remains wary of their chances against the most fancied team in the fold. 

“They (NLEX Warriors) have all the advantage. They’re an experienced and talented team.