It will be the turn of Rain or Shine and Phoenix Super LPG to trade opponents as they go for win No. 2 Saturday, Dec. 11 in the PBA Governors’ Cup at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.
The Elasto Painters play Terrafirma Dyip in the main game at 6:45 p.m. after the Fuel Masters face the Blackwater Bossing in the 4 p.m. opener.
Both posted contrasting comeback victories that gave them a winning start in the season-ending conference two days ago.
Phoenix erased a 17-point third quarter deficit and 13 in the fourth to stun Terrafirma, 103-100 while Rain or Shine bucked Blackwater’s 22-9 start and inched its way back to take a 114-102 win.
Elasto Painters coach Chris Gavina is hoping that the team can end the first few days of the eliminations with another victory, given that the league schedule is only determined on a weekly basis.
“Every game is a do-or-die, really, because you can make or break your season in one weekend,” said Gavina. “Lahat naman gusto manalo sa first game nila para good start, and good vibes para sa continuation ng season.”
Import Henry Walker, Rey Nambatac, Javee Mocon, Gabe Norwood and Beau Belga were key in ROS’ victory and they’ll look to carry that form into the match with Terrafirma.
The Dyip could pose a threat for the Elasto Painters after a solid showing the last time out behind import Antonio Hester.
Hester had 28 points, 16 rebounds, four assists, three steals and one block in his PBA debut.
Phoenix leaned on timely scoring from Matthew Wright and an all-around showing from returning import Paul Harris to steal a win off Terrafirma.
The Fuel Masters are out to remain unbeaten and extend the frustration of the Bossing, who have lost 20 consecutive games stretching back from the 2020 Philippine Cup.