Games Today
(Ynares Center, Antipolo City)
4:15 p.m. – TNT Katropa vs Phoenix
7 p.m. – Globalport vs San Miguel
One game isn’t enough for new import Mychal Ammons to really get a grip of the system of TNT Katropa, but he’s expected to improve as the Texters try to keep their record clean when they face the Phoenix Fuel Masters today in the PBA Governors’ Cup at the Ynares Center in Antipolo City.
Ammons debuted with 18 points and 18 rebounds in a 109-89 win against Blackwater that gave TNT a perfect 5-0 record. He replaced Mario Little, and last Saturday’s game – according to coach Jong Uichico – was a ‘feel out’ period for the team.
“It’s about finding ways to win as we’ve tried to get a feel of our new import, him with the system and the rest of team to his style of play. Siyempre bago e, so medyo rusty sa una,” said Uichico.
“But we’re very much satisfied, and we’re looking forward to this game for us to improve,” he added.
The game between TNT and Phoenix is set at 4:15 p.m., with the Fuel Masters targeting a third straight victory after a 0-3 start, while Globalport clashes against defending champion San Miguel Beer at 7 p.m.
The Batang Pier is fresh from a 126-123 double overtime victory against the Meralco Bolts last Sunday, the team’s first after losing its first four games under new mentor Johnedel Cardel.
SMB is likewise fresh from a double OT win against Barangay Ginebra San Miguel that improved its record to 4-1 – currently at solo second behind TNT.
Known for its defense, San Miguel will be tested as it tries to stop an offensive minded Globalport side, which saw three players scoring 20-plus points as import Mike Glover finished with 26 points and 16 rebounds, Terrence Romeo 24 and Anthony Semerad also 24, including the game-winning three-pointer.
TNT will also rely on team defense against Phoenix, which has a reinforcement capable of exploding offensively in Eugene Phelps, who had 52 points in his debut in a 120-107 win against Globalport and then collected 23 points and 21 rebounds in a 100-94 triumph versus Mahindra.