SAN Miguel Beer and Magnolia go for sweeps in the quarterfinals of the 2021 PBA Philippine Cup on Thursday at the Don Honorio Ventura State University gym in Bacolor, Pampanga.
The Beermen eye a return to the semifinals when they play NorthPort at 2 p.m., while the Hotshots also look to seal their place in the next round against Rain or Shine at 4:35 p.m.
SMB claimed Game One of the best-of-three series in dramatic fashion with Alex Cabagnot, in his first game in the PBA restart, hit a clutch jumper with 1.5 seconds left for an 88-87 win.
The Beermen are one victory away from returning to the semifinals after being ousted by Meralco in last year’s playoff despite holding a twice-to-beat advantage in the quarterfinals.
NorthPort nearly stunned San Miguel when Robert Bolick converted a triple near the DHVSU logo, only to be countered by Cabagnot’s crucial shot.
Paul Lee will look to get of to a stronger start this time.
Magnolia seeks sweep
The Hotshots also go for a sweep after their 81-70 win over Rain or Shine in which Paul Lee and Ian Sangalang delivered.
Lee had 20 points after scoring only one in the first half.
“Kilala naman natin si Paul. Anytime, he can score at any given minute. Talagang pag nag-struggle si Paul, alam ko naman na makakabalik siya dahil grabe ‘yung kumpiyansa nung bata," said head coach Chito Victolero.
"Even if hindi siya nakakashoot nung first half, he attracted the defense at nag-oopen up sa other guys,” said Victolero.
Like NorthPort, Rain or Shine will also eye to send the series into a rubber match on Saturday at the DHVSU gym.
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