UNDER THE MICROSCOPE
RICHARD Howell has just validated Talk N Text’s continued trust in him while Josh Dollard raised a lot of eyebrows in his last game for Barako Bull.
Who between the two imports will continue to be a big factor should be known when the Tropang Texters and Energy collide 3 p.m. Sunday in the PLDT Home Tvolution PBA Commissioner’s Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Undefeated TNT is looking for a fourth win that would cement its hold on the lead, while Barako is aiming to get back on track following a humiliating loss, its second in three games.
How their respective reinforcements fare is critical since it is usually from them that the teams take their lead.
Dollard has the bigger burden.
After averaging 44.5 points and 18.5 rebounds in his first two games the former Auburn Tiger was limited to 12 points and nine rebounds. He also committed seven turnovers in Barako’s 85-103 blowout loss to Air21 last Friday.
In said game, Dollard was often stymied by the taller Herve Lamizana and the scrappy Michael Burtscher, causing him to go just 4-for-16 from the field.
Howell is an entirely different case.
The former North Carolina State star continued to be a pillar of strength for TNT by notching 38 points and 20 rebounds in a 107-99 victory over erstwhile co-leader San Miguel Beer also last Friday. The 23-year-old also threw in five steals and four assists for good measure.
More important, Howell scored 14 of his points in the fourth period, chiefly combining with Jimmy Alapag in quashing a late uprising by the Beermen.
As usual, how the locals contribute should also be critical.
The likes of JC Intal, Denok Miranda, Ronjay Buenafe and Willie Miller should connect from the perimeter and stretch the defense for Dollard to do his usual job inside.
Outside sniping is also key for TNT and that is where Alapag, Ranidel de Ocampo, Larry Fonacier and Jayson Castro come in. (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.
