Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — The Alaska Aces and the Barangay Ginebra San Miguel are both on a three-game winning streaks.
But one of those runs will be halted on Wednesday (March 9), when both teams collide in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Commissioner’s Cup at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum.
Gametime is set at 7 p.m., following the 4:15 p.m. clash between the Mahindra Enforcers and the Phoenix Fuel Masters.
At 3-1, Alaska currently shares the second spot with the San Miguel Beermen. The Gin Kings, meanwhile, are not too far behind with a 3-2 card.
Despite riding the crest of a lopsided victory over the Fuel Masters, Alaska coach Alex Compton is wary of the Gin Kings, especially their import Othyus Jeffers.
In the past three games, Jeffers has normed 28.3 points, 16.0 rebs, and 5.7 assists. Against the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters, the smallest reinforcement in the midseason conference erupted with 38 markers and collared 20 boards.
“Ginebra is playing great basketball right now,” the American mentor told CNN Philippines in a text message.
“They have a great import and they are starting to get more and more comfortable in the way they play.”
Given the aforementioned, Alaska will have to lean on its best weapon — defense — when it tackles the streaking Ginebra.
“Our defensive pressure and ability to give them different looks will be crucial,” said Compton.
Most importantly, the Aces coach said the game “should be a fun and exciting game for the fans.”
