STOPPING THE SKID
ALLEN Durham suits up for Barako Bull, hoping to turn things around for the Energy as they clash with GlobalPort in a crucial encounter at 3 p.m. Sunday in the 2014 PLDT Home Telpad PBA Governors’ Cup at the Alonte Sports Arena in Binan, Laguna.
Durham, Air21’s original choice for the season-ending conference, replaced Eric Wise, who managed to give Barako Bull a win in six matches.
“Definitely crucial itong game na ito sa campaign namin,” said Energy mentor Siot Tanquingcen, whose team is currently tied with GlobalPort at the bottom of the team standings at 1-5.
“Itong conference namin, napakahalaga na makakuha kami ng contribution lalo na may bago kaming import at players sa team,” he added.
Aside from Durham, a product of Grace Bible College, also debuting for the Energy are Nico Salva and Bonbon Custodio whom the team acquired in a deal with GlobalPort early this week.
Wise, the son of former PBA import Francois, averaged 28.7 points and 14.7 rebounds in six games for Barako Bull, which is coming off a 70-98 loss to Ginebra.
After winning their opening game against Meralco, the Energy have dropped their last five games despite solid games from Wise.
GlobalPort is also out to end its four-game losing skid to revive its own chances for a spot in the next round.
The Pido Jarencio-mentored Batang Pier surrendered a 97-82 decision to Talk ‘N Text for its fifth loss in six outings.
Ronjay Buenafe had a forgettable debut for GlobalPort , hitting just five points on 2-of-12 shooting from the field. Jarencio hopes to draw a better performance from Buenafe to stand a better chance against Barako Bull. (JO)
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