Ginebra, Ros seek clincher

MANILA, Philippines — With their win-once advantages as higher seeds, No. 2 Barangay Ginebra and No. 3 Rain or Shine have a maximum of two shots at landing in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup semifinal stage.

But for sure, both the Gin Kings and the Elasto Painters would rather make it there on first try than giving No. 7 Phoenix and No. 6 San Miguel Beer, respectively, the opening for a potential two-game steal in the Last-8.

The Beermen’s firepower and championship pedigree is a given, making ROS coach Yeng Guiao wary ahead of the squad’s clincher attempt today at Ynares Center-Antipolo.

“Kapag umabot ng second game then the pressure will be on us,” said Guiao.

The E-Painters got the better of the Beermen in their elims meeting, 116-112, as part of their franchise-best 7-0 start. But SMB didn’t have Bennie Boatwright back then, and was instead reinforced by Justin Patton who shot 12.

“They have better cohesion with Boatwright, better scorer than their import when we first played them. He will always be a matchup problem. But meron din kaming, kumbaga, factors going for us,” said Guiao, referring to ROS’ speed game.

Advantage in playoffs experience notwithstanding, Ginebra tactician Tim Cone braces for a tough one against Phoenix, a bunch that’s not only hungry for PBA glory but also determined to give Charles Tiu a rousing PBA debut conference at the helm.