Meralco coach Ryan Gregorio hopes a solid outing from new import Darnell Jackson would translate to a victory next time as the Bolts shoot for a playoff spot with only two games to go in the elimination round of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup.
Jackson impressed Gregorio with his 25 points, 18 rebounds, one assist and a steal in his debut last time where they dropped a 78-88 decision to Barangay Ginebra just before the All-Star break.
The loss dropped Meralco to a tie in seventh and eighth spots with Ginebra in the standings after dropping back-to-back games for the first time this conference.
Gregorio said they got a gem of an import in Jackson, the former NBA veteran who had stints with the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Milwaukee Bucks and the Sacramento Kings.
“Obviously he’s a quality import. He’s very strong inside,” noted the 42-year-old Meralco coach. “I think nobody can stop him in a single coverage.”
Only one thing is missing, though: a victory for the Bolts.
“I expect a lot of positive things come Friday,” said Gregorio, whose team faces a Barako Bull team that is trying to keep its flickering playoff hopes alive.
“I think 5-4 (win-loss record) will give us safe passage to the playoffs, but our modest goal right now is win against Barako then worry on the next game later,” he said.
The Bolts face the San Mig Super Coffee next Monday to wind up their elimination round schedule.
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