Magnolia and Rain or Shine — two teams on the rise — seek to sustain their momentum while Terrafirma and NorthPort fight for survival in the Philippine Basketball Association Governors’ Cup today at the Philsports Arena.
The Hotshots and the Elasto Painters clash in the 5:45 p.m. main game following the equally important battle between the Batang Pier and the Dyip at 3 p.m.
After losing their first three games, the Hotshots had suddenly found themselves back on track for playoff contention as they won three games in a row to rediscover their usual deadly form.
The Hotshots has been a consistent performer under the tutelage of Chito Victolero and has not missed a playoff since the coach took over handling the squad beginning the 2016-2017 Philippine Cup.
They appeared to be getting back in the groove and keep on getting better.
But Magnolia’s resolve will be tested by Rain or Shine, a team that is establishing a winning run.
The Elasto Painters had won back-to-back games, including against Terrafirma, 120-118, where coach Yeng Guiao did a marvelous job setting the plays despite the absence of import Greg Williams.
Smith was prevented from playing as the document from the federation of the country he last played in — Dominican Republic — didn’t release his Letter of Clearance to the International Basketball Federation in time for the Elasto Painters’ game against the Dyip.
Team executive Jireh Ibañes confirmed to Daily Tribune that Smith is good to go against the Hotshots.
