The 2017 PBA Philippine Cup semifinals between the TNT KaTropa and the San Miguel Beermen is in its final stretch with TNT a win away from dethroning the defending champions and gaining a finals seat.
But TNT is aware that their finals spot is not yet set in stone despite the advantage. KaTropa head coach Nash Racela can still recall how San Miguel rose from 0-3 against Alaska after to win the 2016 PBA Philippine Cup.
"San Miguel was able to come back form down 3. That is something that I learned in life is that you cannot be complacent and overconfident," said Racela.
Even with the series advantage, Gilas and TNT veteran Ranidel De Ocampo admits that San Miguel is still the best team in the league. Hard work, perseverance and a bit of luck were factors for TNT in game 5.
"Hindi biro yung trabahong ginagawa namin para manalo sa San Miguel. Mahirap sila talunin. Sila talaga ang pinakamalakas na team. May halong swerte rin dahil sa sipag," said De Ocampo.
Sponsored content:
De Ocampo scored 18 points to go with four boards and a block in 28 minutes during the pivotal Game 5.
In order for TNT to win the next game, RDO feels that they need to cover all grounds to secure the victory.
"Ito yung pinakamahirap na tapusin na series. Sila yung defending champion, sila yung pinaka-malakas na team. Kailangan yung kumpleto at perpekto na game."
TNT will have a chance to close out the series on today at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
Story by: Ernest Hernandez
Photo credit: Peter Baltazar
