Blackwater shoots to bolster hold of no. 2 on Christmas Day

For Blackwater, it’s truly the most wonderful time of the year.

Commanding an unprecedented run this 2017 PBA Philippine Cup, the Elite look to fortify their stronghold of the second spot as they take on Mahindra in a Christmas Day duel Sunday at Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan.

Riding the momentum from its back-to-back wins, the last of which coming from a 99-91 conquest over Blackwater last Wednesday, coach Leo Isaac made it clear that he wants to celebrate the holiday season and end the year on a winning note.

“We want to have a good Christmas for this year,” he said.

And they are primed for one, as the Elite are currently on to their best start at 4-2, at joint second place with traditional powerhouse teams TNT and Rain or Shine.

“Sa tatlong taon namin sa PBA, ngayon lang kami andito sa sitwasyon na nasa number two-spot kami midway through the eliminations. Parang gulong lang yan, minsan nasa ilalim, minsan nasa ibabaw. Nasa magandang pwesto naman kami ngayon. Talagang iche-cherish namin ito at talagang paghihirapan namin para makuha namin yung gusto naming marating for this conference,” said Isaac.

And a lot of that should be credited to the squad’s players, led by top dogs Mac Belo and Art dela Cruz, as well as its bench mob, where Isaac has drawn a lot of contributions in its past two contests.

However, Mahindra isn’t ready to roll over, as it seeks to be the grinch who stole Blackwater’s Christmas
when they meet at 3 p.m.

Coming off a nine-day break, coach Chris Gavina has done everything to motivate his players and at least get a silver lining this conference and end the year with a win.

Alex Mallari and rookies Russel Escoto and Joseph Eriobu will be hell bent to end the Floodbuster’s winless streak and finally nab a win after six tries.

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