PBA Philippines Cup playoffs: what to expect from the bubble survivors

The teams that will have an extended stay inside the bubble are preparing for the intensity to increase as playoff basketball progresses following a grueling playoff schedule.

And if the exciting games and low-scoring affairs during the 32-day playoffs that saw a brief interruption and grueling quadruplers were any indication, the PBA Philippines Cup quarterfinals could feature exciting matchups even if the top four teams lead a double to … beat advantage.

Here’s a preview of what PBA fans could expect once the quarter-final action begins on Friday at Smart Clark Giga City.

# 1 Barangay Ginebra San Miguel vs # 8 Rain or shine

Some may say that Rain or Shine have the psychological advantage over Guinevere, especially with the way they pulled off an 85-82 overtime win on October 27, courtesy of a three-way draw by Rey Nambatac in regulation and baskets. of Beau Belga’s clutch on the extension.

But the Elasto Painters were 2-4 since that win as they squandered a chance to clinch the double in a loss to the Phoenix Super LPG Fuel Masters late in the playoffs.

Geneva had a drunken campaign winning the first four games, losing the next two before going 4-1 in the last half of the playoffs. That should get coach Tim Cone’s pupils into the quarters with a confident approach.

Stanley Pringle, Scottie Thompson and even to some extent Aljon Mariano and Prince Caperal were the most consistent performers for Geneva as they entered the playoffs with Japeth Aguilar and LA Tenorio almost back in shape.

Rain or Shine’s strength could lie in their ability to trust each player to deliver on offense, which could coach Caloy Garcia’s team to an unpredictable group.

# 2 Phoenix Super LPG Fuel Masters vs # 7 Magnolia Hotshots National Chicken

Phoenix won its knockout duel with Magnolia 91-84 on October 23 with an impressive 22-0 run in the fourth quarter, a result that helped the Fuel Masters gain the lead twice.

The showdown could be difficult to define, with Phoenix winning its last four games of the eliminations and Magnolia being the hottest team after recording six wins in a row.

Matthew Wright, Calvin Abueva, Jason Perkins and Justin Chua have been coach Topex Robinson’s main threat, but they have garnered solid performances from guards RJ Jazul, Brian Heruela and RR Garcia during the streak.

Paul Lee, center Ian Sangalang and annoying backcourt led by Mark Barroca, Chris Banchero and Jio Jalalon have been excellent during the winning streak highlighted by victories over Geneva and TNT, and are also hungry to make up for their collapse against Phoenix.

# 3 TNT Tropang Giga vs # 6 Alaska Aces

Both teams provided an exciting start to the bubble as TNT posted a 100-95 victory behind RR Pogoy’s 45 points, the highest of his career.

But the game eventually became a prelude to Alaska getting victories in the form of grindout, something that can happen if the opportunity presents itself.

Pogoy and Ray Parks Jr. have become Tropang Giga’s primary source of offense even as Captain Jayson Castro has focused more on stepping aside and playing a complementary role. Poy Erram’s game can determine how far TNT can go in the playoffs.

Alaska’s survival relies on the constancy of Vic Manuel, the timely exterior shots of Mike DiGregorio and Robbie Herndon, the key contributions of Jvee Casio and Jeron Teng, and the opening bubble shape of rookie big man Barkley Ebona.

# 4 Cerveceros San Miguel vs # 5 Meralco Bolts

The team aiming for a sixth consecutive Philippine Cup title barely managed the double despite June Mar Fajardo’s absence from the bubble, Terrence Romeo’s early departure due to injury and their central players dealing with ailments.

They face the Bolts, whom they narrowly beat 89-82 in the playoffs, but are determined to make something happen in the franchise’s first playoff appearance at the All-Filipino in quite some time.

But SMB’s quest to keep it short and sweet will hinge on whether Mo Tautuaa and Arwind Santos can continue their strong performances and whether Marcio Lassiter, Alex Cabagnot and Chris Ross deliver when it matters, as in past title races.

Meralco’s bid for a surprise will be led by Chris Newsome, who has demonstrated his ability to make decisive plays, while consistent Baser Amer, Raymond Almazan, Allein Maliksi and Cliff Hodge plus a demonstration of impact from rookie Aaron Black and veteran Reynel. Hugnatan will be important to coach Norman Black.