TNT unleashes fortified team

MANILA, Philippines — Barring changes from new measures related to COVID-19 prevention, the TNT KaTropa unleash their Poy Erram-fortified roster against injury-hit Phoenix Super LPG today in the opening game of the PBA Philippine Cup’s Day 2 offering at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Erram’s former team, NLEX, begins life without the 6-foot-7 big man in the nightcap as the Road Warriors clash with the NorthPort Batang Pier in their first encounter since their epic three-overtime rubbermatch in the Governors’ Cup quarterfinals.

The KaTropa moved to get quality big man Erram via a three-team trade with NLEX and Blackwater, adding inside presence to the already solid core of Jason Castro, RR Pogoy, Troy Rosario, and Ray Parks for the Season 45 hostilities.

Rosario is listed day-to-day as he recovers from a sore upper leg, but there’s no denying TNT’s manpower advantage if the 4:30 p.m. matchup goes on as scheduled.

The PBA board of governors was slated to convene in a special meeting last night to deliberate on the league’s course of action in the face of the COVID-19 threats.

Commissioner Willie Marcial said they’re weighing in on the following options: suspension of games for one week to one month, playing behind closed doors, or even cancellation.

“We have to play harder and smarter than our opponent,” said TNT coach Bong Ravena, reminding the powerhouse squad of the right approach. “Our mindset is there is no weak team.”

Phoenix counterpart Louie Alas is soldiering on despite a lineup depleted by injuries, aside from the indefinite suspension of Calvin Abueva.

“We’re ready,” said Alas. “My main concern is injuries. Sobrang dami ng injured: Jake Pascual, Dave Marcelo, Alex Mallari and Mike Gamboa, hindi makakalaro on Wednesday. Day-to-day sila Jay-R Reyes, RR Garcia, hopefully okay sila (for the TNT game). Plus Calvin (is) still out.”

Meanwhile, the Road Warriors look at veteran JR Quinahan, Raul Soyud and Kris Porter to fill in the Erram void and complement the backcourt of Kiefer Ravena, Kevin Alas and Jericho Cruz.