A TRIUMPHANT moment to end 2024 is what Barangay Ginebra and Magnolia will fight for in a Christmas Day special at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
All wish to be merry on this occasion. For the Kings and the Hotshots, one good way to do it is winning the Manila Clasico Christmas clash and enjoy the positive vibes it brings through the holidays.
For it's the final game of the year, and both sides are expected to go all out to come out victorious and provide a push in their respective bids in the PBA Season 49 Commissioner's Cup.
Game time is at 7:30 p.m. with the Kings out to rebound from a loss and jack up their record to 4-2 while the Hotshots (2-4) eye a follow-up to a losing-skein-snapping win the last time out.
It's the first face-off for the archrivals in the season since they played in separate groups in the Governors' Cup eliminations and didn't find an opportunity to battle in the playoffs.
Sponsored content:
They squared off the last time during the Season 48 Philippine Cup with the then twice-to-beat second-seeded Gin Kings needing one game to dispose of the Hotshots, 99-77.
"We both need a win so it should be exciting," said Ginebra coach Tim Cone of the match that will feature a showdown between blue-chip imports Justin Brownlee and Ricardo Ratliffe.
As Brownlee and Ratliffe play different style, there would be a big amount of local involvement on the defensive assignments.
Crucial for Ginebra is the status of Japeth Aguilar who will be a game-time decision. The good news is the possible return of Jamie Malonzo and Jeremiah Gray.
Back in harness for Magnolia will be Paul Lee, who had missed three of their last four games.
Sponsored content:
Both teams have been struggling, and want to steady the ship and pick up momentum heading to the final half of the elims.
The Kings are currently at sixth place while the Hotshots are mired outside the Top Eight.(SB)
