Mahindra, Talk N’ Text battle for first win
Will Mahindra’s offseason moves come back to haunt them?
And how poetic is it that that question can be answered on Halloween night, as the Enforcers clash against Talk N’ Text on Saturday in the 2016 Smart Bro PBA Philippine Cup at Mall of Asia Arena.
Mahindra dealt number two pick Troy Rosario to the Tropang Texters, but also equipped itself with tools to contend this season.
An active offseason saw the Enforcers acquire Nino Canaleta, Aldrech Ramos, and Juneric Baloria through trades, signing up Paolo Hubalde, Nard Pinto, and Eddie Laure from the free agent market, as securing the rights of rookie Bradwyn Guinto.
But those moves have so far fallent flat after Mahindra’s absorbed a 108-94 loss Rain or Shine in their opening game.
TNT’s luck, though, was a little bit worse as the Tropang Texters suffered a 114-98 beating at the hands of Alaska and then lost Ranidel de Ocampo to injury.
De Ocampo will be out for four to six weeks due to a herniated disc.
With that development, more responsibility will lie on the shoulders of Rosario and top pick Mo Tautuaa.
But after that struggle of a season opener, the rookies vowed to be more prepared for the challenge ahead.
“It’s a long season so I got to keep my head up and continue to work, bring the results the team needs,” said Tautuaa.
“Sa akin, challenge lang kung pano magi-improve. Iniisip ko na lang lagi kung pano ako magpeperform at makakatulong sa team ko,” chimed in Rosario.
Mahindra and TNT shoot for their first win in the opening game at 3 p.m.
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