By REYNALD MAGALLON
Games Today
(Smart Araneta Coliseum)
4 p.m. – Terrafirma vs NorthPort
8 p.m. – NLEX vs Phoenix
Highly touted Thomas Robinson set for debut as NLEX faces Phoenix
Highly touted import and NBA veteran Thomas Robinson is set to make his PBA debut when NLEX takes on Phoenix to open their respective campaigns in the 2023 Commissioner’s Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Friday, Nov. 10.
Tip-off of the contest is at 8 p.m. with the Road Warriors aiming for a strong start to the conference against a young but dangerous Fuel Masters.
Serving as a fitting appetizer to the main event is the clash between Terrafirma and NorthPort in the first game at 4 p.m.
All eyes should be on Robinson who is finally setting his foot on the PBA court after his supposed stint with San Miguel last season was hindered by a back injury. Robinson said he has no issue dealing with the pressure as he also holds himself to high expectations.
“I have expectations for myself that are very high, they consist of winning big for my team. I hold myself to a high standard,” said Robinson.
That should also bode well for head coach Frankie Lim who expects a splendid conference with guys like Kevin Alas, Don Trollano, Matt Nieto and Sean Anthony tasked to contribute.
The Fuel Masters though are certainly no pushovers especially after an offseason focused on re-tooling and refining their weapons.
Tyler Tio, Javee Mocon and Jason Perkins are poised to lead the charge but Phoenix had also added potent weapons and potential contributors in the likes of Ricci Rivero and Ken Tuffin.
Phoenix is also certainly not lacking in NBA pedigree with import Johnathan Williams who had stints with the Los Angeles Lakers and Washington Wizards.
Meanwhile in the opening game, top rookie pick Stephen Holt will be making his debut alongside import Thomas De Thaey.
They hope to provide Dyip star Juami Tiongson plenty of help to turn the fortunes around of the perennial cellar dweller Terrafirma.
NorthPort, however, also has the same thing in mind as it parades Australian veteran Venky Jois to join a potent local crew that featured Avin Tolentino, Joshua Munzon, Paul Zamar along with rookies Fran Yu, Brent Paraiso, Cade Flores and John Amores.
