Batang Pier stake unbeaten slate against Aces

Globalport has been on a roll, but head coach Franz Pumaren insists the harder tests for his Batang Pier are yet to come.

Alaska is the first real gauge of whether GlobalPort could be considered a contender when they clash Wednesday in the PBA Philippine Cup at the Mall of Asia Arena,

A third straight victory by the Batang Pier would keep them as the only unbeaten team in the season-opening tournament while installing them more firmly on top in the short 11-game eliminations.

GlobalPort opened up the season with victories over Mahindra and GlobalPort, the last via a 91-84 decision last Friday.

Although Pumaren admitted the 2-0 start is a “great springboard” for his team, it still has to brace for a tough stretch in which it also to face Barangay Ginebra, rejuvenated Blackwater and resurgent Phoenix.

“It’s still too early in the tournament for us to use these wins as gauge,” maintained Pumaren.

“The real test will be in the coming games.”

Already, Pumaren’s charges are expected to have their hands full right on Wednesday against an Alaska crew that has been winless after two games thus far.

The Aces, runners-up the last two editions of the tournaey, have proven their mettle thus far by stretching defending champion San Miguel Beer to the limit despite being severely short-handed before bowing 88-93 last Saturday.

What makes that stand memorable is the fact Alaska played minus the injured Sonny Thoss, Noy Baclao and Calvin Abueva and Vic Manuel and Ping Exciminiano, suspended by the team for playing in an unsanctioned
game.

Manuel and Exciminiano are expected to see action Wednesday along with Baclao, which should give coach Alex Compton more options aside from Jayvee Casio, RJ Jazul, Carl Bryant Cruz, Dondon Hontiveros and Chris Banchero.

How GlobalPort’s lethal backcourt duo of Terrence Romeo and Stanley Pringle hold up against Alaska’s pressure defense is one crucial factor.

The Batang Pier, however, have other additional weapons in Nino Canaleta, JR Quinahan and even the likes of Anthony Semerad, Mike Cortez, Aaron Aban and Mick Pennisi.

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