Meralco, NP, NLEX seek 2-0 start
Meralco and Northport shoot for a 2-0 start when they take on their respective foes tonight in Season 44 Philippine Basketball Association Governors’ Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.
The Bolts face Northern Luzon Expressway (NLEX) in the 4:30 p.m. first game followed by the clash between the Batang Pier and defending champion Magnolia at 7 p.m.
The Bolts are coming off a 98-92 win over the Hotshots last Saturday.
“Considering the offensive efficiency NLEX displayed in there first game, we will have to be on our defensive game to get a win. Slowing down Kiefer (Ravena) and their import Olu Ashaolu will be a priority along with defending against their three-point shots,” said Meralco coach Norman Black.
Chris Newsome scored 22 points while back-to-back import Allen Durham had a near triple-double of 21 points, 14 rebounds and eight assists. Raymond Almazan contributed 19 points and 13 rebounds in Meralco’s victory over Magnolia.
The Road Warriors won 123-116 over Phoenix Pulse in their first game last Saturday.
Kiefer Ravena registered an impressive 20 points, nine rebounds and seven assists in his first game in the PBA after serving an 18-month suspension imposed by the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) for doping violations.
Meanwhile, Northport is expecting a hard game against the Hotshots (0-1 win-loss record).
Rookie Robert Bolick scattered 20 points while Mychal Ammons finished with 25 points and 19 rebounds in the Batang Pier’s 99-94 win over Rain or Shine in last Friday’s opener.
“We’re facing a tough opponent since they are the defending champion, their import is good but we are ready,” said Northport coach Pido Jarencio.
The Hotshots will will be led by import Romeo Travis, Mark Barroca, Ian Sangalang and Paul Lee.