Magnolia eyes a piece of the tournament lead as it goes for a second straight win when it resumes its bid in the 2018 Philippine Basketball Association Governors’ Cup.
Currently running second, the Hotshots (4-1) look to improve their stand as they are heavily favored against cellar-dweller Columbian Dyip (0-6) in the 4:30 p.m. clash at the Smart Araneta Coliseum today.
Not far behind in the leader board, Alaska (3-1) goes back to action after more than a month of layoff when it gets challenged by winless Rain or Shine (0-2) in the main event at 7 p.m.
Magnolia is tied with Blackwater for second place behind league-leader Barangay Ginebra. Another win can give them a tie at the top with the Gin Kings.
The Hotshots are still fresh from a morale-boosting 109-108 squeaker over San Miguel Beer in a thrilling encounter Sunday night.
With star guard Paul Lee at his best and import Romeo Travis blending well with the team, Magnolia is right where it wanted to be at this point.
“It’s a good start for us. Everyone is doing their parts well and stepping up for the team,” said Magnolia coach Chito Victolero. “Romeo’s leadership is a big key for us. He fits the team very well.”
While Magnolia ‘s campaign is going well, Columbian Dyip is not having the best of starts.
The Dyip have yet to win a game in six outings as their chances of making the top eight is getting more bleak as each game passes.
Alaska, who last played on Sept. 2, hopes that being away from action for more than a month will not have an effect against Rain or Shine.
The Aces are aiming to bounce back after falling to Ginebra, 101-109, in their last outing.
Still, they are in good shape as they are only half-game behind Magnolia and Blackwater for second place.
Contrary to Alaska’s early success, Rain or Shine still can’t find any luck.
The Elasto Painters are still without a win following back-to-back defeats to open their bid.
To help their cause, Rain or Shine will parade a new import in Terrence Watson, who will be replacing J’Nathan Bullock.”‹
