Rotation a key in PBA Finals

MANILA, Philippines —  Rotation looms as a key factor in the PBA Governors’ Cup Finals starting at the Ynares Center, Antipolo, on Sunday, particularly if it extends to a long series. In the semis, Barangay Ginebra coach Tim Cone deployed 14 players with five averaging at least 30 minutes and six scoring in double figures while TNT coach Chot Reyes used 15 players with only three averaging at least 30 minutes and five scoring in twin digits. The numbers indicate that Cone generates more mileage from a compact core but Reyes prefers a wider distribution of minutes to gear up for a grueling grind.

Although Ginebra is No. 1 in three-point percentage and No. 2 in perimeter points, Cone isn’t a fan of jacking up shots from deep. “I’m more old school,” he said. “I prefer setting up and executing.” But with Justin Brownlee hitting .375 from four and .393 from three in the semis, it’s difficult to ignore the value of shooting from long distance. Cone and Reyes are masters of mid-stream adjustments, a trait that will turn every game in the Finals into a chess battle of wits.

Cone runs a structured, deliberate, half-court offense usually the triple-post triangle that relies on ball movement. Reyes is a stickler for defense, the reason why TNT is No. 1 in allowing points, 89.9 a game. He’s a free-wheeler who lets his players display their individual skills on offense. The difference in approach is reflected in Ginebra ranking No. 1 in assists (26) and TNT last (18.7). However, TNT is No. 1 in assists allowed (17.3).

Cone and Reyes go back a long way. Reyes was once Cone’s assistant at Alaska and Cone was Reyes’ assistant with Gilas. They’ve worked together. Their wives are business partners. But when it comes to basketball, they’re fierce competitors, leaving their friendship off the court. In the coming Finals, Reyes and Cone will clash in a title series for the first time in 12 years. They’ve faced off in six Finals with Cone and Reyes winning three each so this is the tiebreaker.

Cone, 66, is the winningest PBA coach with 25 titles and five Coach of the Year awards. Reyes, 61, has bagged nine titles and six Coach of the Year trophies. Ginebra has captured 15 titles and TNT nine. TNT is the defending Governors’ Cup champion and Rondae Hollis-Jefferson the defending Best Import.