THE PBA 49th Season Governors’ Cup quarterfinals move to the Ynares Center for the first time this season.
The Antipolo City venue will host its first PBA playdate since it made major renovations by installing a new floor, which includes a permanent four-point line, and a scoreboard.
One team will emerge with a 2-1 lead in the series including the series between Magnolia and Rain or Shine, which is facing the prospects of playing all-Filipino in Sunday’s match.
Here’s a preview of Game Three.
TNT vs. NLEX
When: Sunday, September 29. 5 p.m.
Where: Ynares Center, Antipolo City
Series tied at 1-1
NLEX turned the series into a deadlock after beating TNT, 93-90, in Sta. Rosa, Laguna last Friday. The Road Warriors will try to grab the lead in another game outside Metro Manila to be held at the Ynares Center.
READ: NLEX proves tougher late this time to even QFs series vs. TNT
Bolick steps up in Game Two
Robert Bolick gave NLEX a boost in Game Two when he had 16 points and five assists after being limited to 10 points in the series opener. Bolick complemented DeQuan Jones’ 38-point performance on their way to victory.
Herndon, Anthony a boost for NLEX
Robbie Herndon missed Game One, but returned in Game Two with solid contributions after scoring eight points and grabbing 11 rebounds last Friday. His presence will once again be needed in Game Three.
The same can be said for Sean Anthony, who also provided quality minutes after grabbing six rebounds while being a solid defender in Game Two.
Pogoy, Nambatac need to stay out of foul trouble
Roger Pogoy had a big night when he had 19 points but eventually fouled out and missed the crucial juncture of the game. Rey Nambatac had 11 points but was also limited when he had five fouls. TNT needs them to stay on the floor in Game Three.
Magnolia vs. Rain or Shine
When: Sunday, September 29. 7:30 p.m.
Where: Ynares Center, Antipolo City
Bird helps Magnolia in tying the series
Magnolia evened its series in an emphatic way by defeating Rain or Shine, 121-69. Jabari Bird played a vital role in the win with Magnolia’s fourth import of the conference providing 22 points and 13 rebounds in the win.
READ: Bird a seamless fit as Magnolia deals RoS a 52-point beatdown
Aaron Fuller a big question mark for Rain or Shine
Elasto Painters coach Yeng Guiao have ruled out Aaron Fuller for Game Three due to an eye injury. He sustained the injury when Fuller got poked in the eye by Ian Sangalang in the first quarter of Game Two.
READ: Aaron Fuller out for Rain or Shine in crucial Game 3 vs. Magnolia
Fuller’s absence was felt big time by Rain or Shine as it was outrebounded by a mile, 67-37, with the Elasto Painters only scoring 24 points in the paint, in contrast to the Hotshots’ 78. Fuller’s health is not only the biggest question mark but Rain or Shine’s Governors’ Cup campaign moving forward.
Abueva playoff mode
Calvin Abueva stepped up in Game Two for Magnolia in one of his best performances of the conference when he had 18 points and hauled 10 rebounds. Another similar performance by ‘The Beast’ will be a boost to the Hotshots in the series.
Rain or Shine’s fastbreak points absent
The top team in fastbreak points in the eliminations, the Elasto Painters failed to draw scores from their strength, being limited to only six in Game Two. Rain or Shine must return to its usual ways in order to have a chance at Game Three.
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