ENERGY AIM TO ARREST SLIDE, STOP STREAKING HOTSHOTS
BARAKO Bull’s grasp on what started out as a conference of promise has now been loosened. But the Energy know they still have enough time and games left to save the situation.
That is why Barako coach Koy Banal can’t urge his charges enough to come up with more than their A-game Tuesday when they collide with Purefoods Star in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
“We need to play an almost perfect game in order for us to compete with them,” said Banal of their 4:15 p.m. encounter.
Due to their own efforts and helped along by other teams, the Hotshots are already assured of a playoff spot and now aim for a third straight win and a higher finish going to the next round.
The same would have been true of Barako had it not lost three straight. The Energy have actually dropped five of their last six games, quite a far cry from the same team that set a franchise record by opening up the tourney at 3-0.
Aside from learning from the mistakes made, the past is better forgotten and for Barako to move forward and win not only against the defending champion but also against NLEX next Tuesday.
The Energy’s penultimate outing in the eliminations is already a herculean one.
After outlasting San Miguel Beer, 113-105, in overtime last March 1, Purefoods showed little ill effects from the All-Star break by nipping Talk N Text, 118-117, after three extensions last Saturday in Davao City.
“Purefoods is back in their championship form,” noted Banal.
Denzel Bowles is a very big reason for the Hotshots’ resurgence from three straight losses as he has averaged 32.5 points, 16.0 rebounds, 6.0 assists and 3.5 blocks the last two games.
The former Best Import awardee also has not been wanting in local support as the likes of Mark Barroca, James Yap, Alex Mallari, Marc Pingris and Joe Devance are always there to make their own contributions.
For Barako, Solomon Alabi was held to just 14 points and 12 rebounds in an 85-98 loss to Meralco last Friday but is still averaging 22.56 and 20 per game.
It is imperative therefore for the likes of JC Intal, Sol Mercado, Chico Lanete, RR Garcia and Jake Pascual to come in and make their own contributions. (NC)
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