Feb 20, 2018

GlobalPort hard-pressed to win against KIA to stay in playoff race

ITS last time out, GlobalPort miserably failed to enhance its chances of making it to the PBA Philippine Cup playoffs and is now facing a couple of must-win situations.

The Batang Pier remain undaunted by their gigantic task and aim to move forward starting Wednesday when they take on a Kia Picanto crew bent on winning one for a grieving official at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

A victory by GlobalPort would solidify its place among the top eight and it's place in the quarterfinals would be secured should it prevail anew over Phoenix at eliminations' end next Friday.

That pressure would have been not as much had the Batang Pier not lost to Magnolia Ang Pambansang Manok 81-96 last Friday, when the former blew a 13-point lead and could not match the Hotshots' second half surges.

Now should Kia pull off an upset then GlobalPort's bid of advancing would be greatly jeopardized and their game against the Fuel Masters take on additional importance -- and pressure.

Sponsored content:
So it is imperative the Batang Pier get past this immediate hurdle.

"We need to play hard tomorrow. No room to relax," said coach Pido Jarencio on the eve of the match.

Kia has long been out of the playoffs hunt and got even more mired at the cellar following a 76-95 loss to Blackwater its last time out for a fourth straight defeat.

The Picanto's determination to act out the role of spoiler in their remaining games take on additional meaning since they want to dedicate one for the wife of team manager Joe Lipa, Ging, who passed away last Friday.

"Despite our situation we remain unperturbed and defiant as we go all out to get a win," said Kia coach Ricky Dandan. "And, yes, win one for Tita Ging and coach Joe."

Sponsored content:
The Picanto, who wind up the elims against San Miguel Beer on Friday, already have the tools with the likes of Rashawn McCarthy, Jackson Corpuz, JayR Reyes, Eric Camson and Ronald Tubid leading the way.

"Kia is a dangerous and unpredictable team," noted Jarencio.

For GlobalPort to get back on track, so must Stanley Pringle. After averaging 23.25 points in the first eight games, Pringle was limited to just eight points on 1-for-11 field shooting against Magnolia.

Also crucial for the Batang Pier are the contributions expected chiefly from Sean Anthony, Kelly Nabong, Jonathan Grey and Nico Elorde. (NC)