TEXTERS TEST ENERGY METTLE
BARAKO Bull has gotten a cushion for the second straight conference.
The Energy just hope they would not blow it this time around, considering the rocky road that lies just ahead.
Barako takes the first step on that rough route when they tangle with Talk N Text Friday in the PBA Governors’ Cup at the Ynares Center in Antipolo City.
A third win in as many games for Barako would duplicate its best-ever 3-0 start in the Commissioner’s Cup and give it a share of the lead with GlobalPort.
It would also serve the Energy in good stead, considering they take on Meralco, San Miguel Beer and Rain or Shine next.
At least as equally determined is TNT, bent on following up its 95-91 win over Barangay Ginebra last Sunday.
To achieve their immediate goal the Tropang Texters are reportedly set to utilize Ranidel de Ocampo, who, together with Jayson Castro, Aaron Aban and Kevin Alas, sat out the Kings game due to injury.
According to a team insider, De Ocampo has sufficiently recovered from his knee injury, which he suffered in the deciding game of the Texters’ Commissioner’s Cup title romp where he was named Finals MVP.
That should come as bad news for Barako coach Koy Banal, who initially thought his main problems lie with TNT imports Steffphon Pettigrew and Jordanian San Daghles. Pettigrew debuted with 33 points, 12 rebounds and four steals and Daghles 12 points and six assists.
“They have a very good American and Asian import. They are parading a big lineup this conference,” said Banal. “I’m hoping Castro and RDO still won’t play.”
One thing going for the Energy is seven-foot Canadian Liam McMorrow, who has been a pillar of strength for Barako with averages of 28 points, 18.5 rebounds.
Also playing big thus far for Banal are JC Intal, norming 20.5 points, Carlo Lastimosa and new acquisitions Dylan Ababou and Rico Maierhofer.
Banal is pinning most of his hopes on McMorrow since TNT is without a true center and coach Jong Uichico opting to mostly use natural forwards Jay Washington and Kelly Williams in the middle.
“The only height advantage we have is with our import. We just want to stay basic so we can stay close with them until the end,” said Banal. (NC)
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