SMART CLARK GIGA CITY - Merely stalled and still on track.
That's the attitude TNT is taking when it battles NLEX Thursday in the PBA Philippine Cup at the Smart 5G-powered AUF Sports Arena in Angeles City.
The Tropang Giga are eyeing a sixth win in as many games that would not only keep them firmly in top spot but also formalize their entry into the eight-team quarterfinals.
"Iyun talaga target namin sa ngayon, ang makapasok muna sa quarterfinals," said TNT coach Bong Ravena. "Then, we will continue to try and win more games para makapasok sa top four, possibly be even No. 1."
The top four teams would be rewarded with a twice-to-beat advantage over lower-ranked squads in the last eight.
TNT actually had an initial crack at that goal last Monday, when it was supposed to duel NorthPort. But that game was canceled when the PBA announced that a Blackwater tested positive for the coronavirus.
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The player has already been cleared after his antigen and swab tests yielded negative results.
Since the Tropang Giga played the Elite last Thursday, they were also barred from leaving their rooms and the former's game against the Batang Pier re-set to a later date.
Despite the wait, Ravena can't help but appreciate the PBA's moves. "We understand naman na itong mga measures na ginawa done to uphold 'yung integrity nitong bubble," he said.
"Para sa kapakanan naman ng lahat ito, eh."
Now it's back to the task at hand.
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NLEX should be tough to handle, having lost two straight and clearly in danger of missing out on the playoffs.
Ravena said his side should be ready.
"We all know how important this game is for both of us," stated Ravena. "They beat us in the last conference so we cannot relax. We have to go out and get it."
The delay also bore a positive fruit. Jayson Castro, who sat out the Blackwater game due to tightness on his right calf, is now fully fit and ready to see action anew. (NC)
