By JONAS TERRADO
Games Today
(Ynares Center, Antipolo City)
4:30 p.m. – Alaska vs TNT KaTropa
6:45 p.m. – San Miguel vs Rain or Shine
TNT KaTropa looks to keep its status as the only unbeaten team of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup while defending champion San Miguel aims to bounce back from losing its opening assignment when they meet separate foes today at the Ynares Center in Antipolo City.
The KaTropa take on the Alaska Aces in the 4:30 p.m. opener while the Beermen battle the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters at 6:45 p.m. as the league concludes its three-day swing outside of the metropolis.
While pleased with TNT’s best start since the 2016 Governors’ Cup, coach Nash Racela would rather see this consistency until the end of the midseason conference.
“It kinda gives us a headstart, something we didn’t have last conference. But it’s still a long tournament,” said Racela, though hoping for consistent from his two main players after struggling in last week’s 96-92 win over Barangay Ginebra San Miguel.
Terrence Romeo shot 1-of-9 from the field for three points while import Jeremy Tyler, dealing with a stomach problem, scored only two points but made up for it on the glass with 15 rebounds.
Romeo and Tyler are eager to atone for their struggles this time and provide help for Jayson Castro, Troy Rosario, Roger Pogoy and Jericho Cruz against an Alaska team which won its first three games.
Meanwhile, San Miguel is out to flaunt its deadly form after a humbling 93-85 loss to Meralco Wednesday that spoiled the debut of rookie sensation Christian Standhardinger.
“I think we’re still in the period of adjustment,” said Beermen coach Leo Austria. “It’s very obvious that the blending was not really good for us. I want them to get back to the rhythm where they belong.”
After finishing with four points and five rebounds against Meralco, Standhardinger will try to produce a better showing alongside San Miguel’s star-studded five of June Mar Fajardo, Chris Ross, Arwind Santos, Alex Cabagnot and Marcio Lassiter.
But probably the more pressing concern is whether import Troy Gillenwater will fit the bill this time after being held to two points in the second half. Gillenwater had made 17 in the first half before running out of steam.
