FOR the Barangay Ginebra Kings, it's been about pouring everything while at the same time conserving their energy.
It's a big advantage that they have a formidable first group backed by a solid cast of relievers that they can push hard every inch of the way - a luxury that says a lot in their dominant ride against the NorthPort Batang Pier.
And since it's a long semifinal series followed by what could be a lot more taxing grind in the finals, the Gin Kings would surely love a semis sweep that would afford them a breather before resuming chase of ultimate glory.
Coach Tim Cone's revved-up squad goes for it, seeking a 4-0 shutout of the beleaguered Batang Pier in their PBA Commissioner's Cup semis waltz Wednesday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Tip-off is at 5 p.m.
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TNT and Rain or Shine are engaged in a war of attrition in their side of the semis. The Kings would gain a benefit of rest if they can apply the broom on the Batang Pier.
Cone said they've been taking advantage of what they've got.
"Our first group is coming out and playing well but our second group led by Jamie (Malonzo) and RJ (Abarrientos) are just playing great. They've been able to extend leads and break the back of the other team. That's a luxury to have," said Cone.
"It's a team that doesn't move back; it moves forward. It's a luxury we're taking advantage of," Cone added.
The Batang Pier, meanwhile, are holding on to the fact that the series is not yet over, and they're still alive.
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"We're just staying really positive and sticking with each other," said NorthPort top gun Arvin Tolentino. "It's really a hard thing to do right now, being down 0-3. I can't say we're good right now (because) we're down. But morale-wise, I can say the team is still okay. We're still okay.
"Actually, our confidence was high coming to the series. We won against them in the elims so we have the mental advantage," he said, referring to their 119-116 verdict in their pre-semis encounter. "But we're practically new in the semis compared to Ginebra which is a very experienced team."
The seasoned side has been all over the young ones, completely dominant in their 115-93, 119-106 and 127-100 victories in the first three games.
And the Kings are determined to move forward and advance their cause the earliest they can. (SB)
