ACES OUT TO STRETCH STREAK AT EXPENSE OF ENERGY
ALASKA is enjoying its finest start yet in the Alex Compton era and it is now a matter of continuing that streak.
But standing in the Aces’ way is a Barako Bull squad determined to pull off a man-sized upset in their 4:15 p.m. collision Wednesday in the PBA Philippine Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
A win by league-leading Alaska would be its seventh straight, just two shy of the franchise’s best fashioned while it was still being handled by Tim Cone, and would move it closer to a coveted top two finish in the 11-game eliminations that carries with it an automatic semifinals berth.
Barako has a far simpler goal, which is to fan its hopes of making it among the 10 teams advancing to at least the first phase of the quarterfinals.
Another win by the Energy, following their breakthrough 87-71 conquest of Kia last Sunday, would sure go a long way towards realizing that immediate goal.
It should be easier said than done since Alaska is sure to come prepared.
“Coming off a win we know Barako is playing with confidence,” said Compton.
“Their guards pose a problem for us and Mick Pennisi is one of the most unique and inteligent players in the league,” added Compton.
“Our defensive pressure must cause problems for Barako in order for us to be successful.”
Indeed, Alaska is coming off a 69-56 win over Blackwater last Friday, when the Aces made up for a 29-for-87 field shooting by holding the Elite to just 20 points at halftime, 38 through three quarters and a more dismal 23-for-76 clip overall.
Injured in the pre-season and playing in only his second game, former MVP Eric Menk notched a double-double of 14 points and 13 rebounds while Calvin Abueva turned in another solid game with 13 markers, 18 boards and five dimes.
Whether Jake Pascual, who led Barako past Kia with a career game of 22 points, 12 rebounds and three assists, could contain Abueva remains the biggest question.
The Energy also have other weapons in Denok Miranda, JC Intal, RR Garcia, Willie Wilson, Mick Pennisi and Dave Marcelo but they are sure to have their hands full.
Aside from Abueva and Menk, Alaska also boasts of Vic Manuel, Dondon Hontiveros, Jayvee Casio and RJ Jazul, as well as Sonny Thoss, who is expected to suit up after missing the last two games due to a foot injury.
Banal, however, is not one to give up hope. “Next is Alaska, medyo mahirap,” he said after the Kia game.
“Pero walang imposible. Everything is possible.” (NC)
Subscribe to INQUIRER PLUS to get access to The Philippine Daily Inquirer & other 70+ titles, share up to 5 gadgets, listen to the news, download as early as 4am & share articles on social media. Call 896 6000.
