Phoenix, Meralco lock horns

Phoenix had the debut it was hoping for after trumping NLEX, 118-106 last Wednesday.

But following up that win isn’t going to be easy, more so that league leader Meralco is next on the Fuel Masters’ schedule in the 2016 PBA Commissioner’s Cup.

Coach Koy Banal admits that his squad is on a high after a eventful off-season—from the franchise’s sale to its re-launch this second conference.

“The players are all pumped up and they are inspired to play. I’m just thankful and grateful to the players that they gave their all to be able to get the win,” he said.

The Fuel Masters drew a huge 33-point outburst from RR Garcia in their conference-opening win. Import Kenny Adeleke, and locals JC Intal and Mac Baracael also provided solid back up to jumpstart the team’s new chapter.

Banal will be hoping for the same intensity when Phoenix try to blemish the undefeated record of Meralco on Sunday.Game time is at 3 p.m. at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

For their part, coach Norman Black is elated with the way the Bolts have opened this conference.

“I’m happy that we’re at 3-0,” he said. “At the end of the day, four teams will go and I don’t want to be one of them.”

Leaning behind reinforcement Arinze Onuaku, Meralco is eyeing to continue its stronghold of the top spot.

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