Unless things turn in a different direction, unbeaten TNT KaTropa could be in for another close encounter when it shoots for a seventh victory against Alaska on Friday in the PBA Governors’ Cup at the Ynares Center in Antipolo City.
The KaTropa once again stake their perfect record while boosting their chances of securing a twice-to-beat advantage in the 7 p.m. match with an Aces side that finally ended a winless spell under new coach Jeffrey Cariaso.
TNT escaped with a 116-113 win over Meralco last Saturday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in a game that saw coach Bong Ravena and consultant Mark Dickel’s squad overhaul an early 19-point deficit.
Import KJ McDaniels’ 51 points proved to be crucial in the game that closely threatened TNT’s status as the league’s only unbeaten team.
“Buti na lang nandyan siya palagi,” said Ravena after Saturday’s match with the Bolts.
TNT previously escaped past NorthPort, 103-100, overcame Columbian 125-120 and edged Phoenix Pulse 123-118.
PBA Press Corps co-Player of the Week Troy Rosario, Jayson Castro, Roger Pogoy and Don Trollano try to see if TNT can make things comfortable this time against Alaska.
The Aces ended a 0-5 start Sunday when they beat the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters, 78-71, at the Big Dome.
Jeron Teng, who shared the Player of the Week honors with Rosario, tries to deliver another strong showing for the Aces in his second game back from a hamstring injury.
Meralco tries to stay in the top four despite falling short against TNT when it faces Blackwater in the opener set at 4:30 p.m.
The Bolts, who carry a record of three wins and two defeats, are looking to keep firm grip on fourth place behind import Allen Durham, Baser Amer, Raymond Almazan and Chris Newsome.
Blackwater shoots for a second straight win after beating shorthanded Magnolia 95-89 Wednesday at the same venue.
Marqus Blakely, who was chosen by Blackwater as its import for the remainder of the conference, aims to lead his team to another upset.
