VITAL TIFF FOR E-PAINTERS, CARNIVAL
DESPITE its recent struggles Kia remains in the thick of the hunt for one of the coveted spots in the PBA Governors’ Cup.
The Carnival can fan their chances but must prevail over a Rain or Shine crew that has its own sights trained on the same goal Wednesday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
“Kia is (also) a strong contender for the top four. It’s either us or them,” was how Elasto Painters coach Yeng Guiao described the 4:15 p.m. match that is indeed vital for both teams.
A win by Rain or Shine would assure its inclusion among the eight teams qualifying for the quarterfinals. But the E-Painters do not plan on stopping there as they want a top four finish at the end of the 11-game eliminations for a win-once advantage in the next round.
That could be achieved by Guiao’s charges if they win today and against Meralco at elims end Wednesday.
“We need this win to keep our chances alive for a twice-to-beat advantage,” noted Guiao.
After Wednesday’s game, Kia still has to tackle Talk N Text and Meralco, needing to win those matches as well if only to shore up its bid for inclusion among the top eight.
It is on Rain or Shine the Carnival have their crosshairs trained on at the moment.
“Big game for us. We need to win,” said Chito Victolero, calling the shots for Kia in lieu of injured playing-coach Manny Pacquiao. “We need to prepare mentally and physically.”
The urgency of the moment for Kia is compounded by the fact Rain or Shine is on a four-game winning streak which it capped with a 103-88 demolition job on defending champion Star last Saturday.
“Iyung confidence and teamwork nila bumalik na. Grabe ang nilalaro nila ngayon, so we really need to prepare hard for this game,” said Victolero.
Foremost among those pumped up in the Carnival camp are seven-foot Hamady N’Diaye of Senegal and spitfirish Jet Chang of Taiwan.
N’Diaye has been averaging 16.25 points, 14.25 rebounds and 5.12 blocks per game and Chang 14.6 points.
The likes of LA Revilla, Karl Dehesa, Alex Nuyles and Hyram Bagatsing have also proven to be streaky at times, reinforcing Guiao’s belief his team would be in for a tough outing.
“Defending their two imports will be our biggest challenge. Their locals have also made significant contributions,” stated Guiao.
Rain or Shine has its own weapons, led by Wendell McKines, who is usually good for 28 points and 14.3 caroms an outing.
Also, Paul Lee, Jeff Chan, Jericho Cruz, Gabe Norwood, Beau Belga, Chris Tiu and JR Quiñahan have taken turns stepping up, easing some of Guiao’s worries. (NC)
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