THE PBA On Tour nears its homestretch with a titanic duel pitting top teams Magnolia and Rain or Shine.
Elasto Painters coach Yeng Guiao is convinced their game against the Hotshots tomorrow, Saturday, in Dumaguete will be a big hit among fans in the City of Gentle People.
“Iyong No. 1 and No. 2 teams doon maglalaro,” Guiao said. “Kahit na exhibition lang ito, I think Dumaguete will enjoy having Magnolia and Rain or Shine play there on Saturday.”
Rain or Shine’s 106-100 win over TNT last Wednesday made the tiff an even highly anticipated one.
The triumph– their second straight– pushed the Painters’ mark to 7-1.
Magnolia is showing the way in the pro league’s extended pre-season with an unscathed 8-0 record, counting a 94-65 shellacking of San Miguel Beer five days ago.
Guiao said his wards’ close win against the winless Tropang Giga will be a huge confidence booster which he hopes will carry them going into their clash with the Hotshots.
“Magandang set-up rin for our match-up with Magnolia. Maganda na na-experience din ng mga bata iyong ganitong situation,” he said. “I think this is good mental preparation for the close games. So, malaking bagay.”
The likes of Anton Asistio, Gian Mamuyac, Leonard Santillan, Shaun Ildefonso, Jhonard Clarito and veteran Beau Belga will be counted upon by Rain or Shine to deliver.
Magnolia will pin its hopes on Calvin Abueva, Paul Lee, Jio Jalalon, James Laput, and Jerrick Ahanmisi.
