NorthPort is hoping to sustain its strong end to 2024 and keep its impressive performance so far in the PBA Season 49 Commissioner’s Cup going when it returns to action for its last five games in eliminations.

The Batang Pier are one of the biggest surprises of the mid-season conference, taking the top spot in the standings with a 6-1 record and one of their feet almost already inside the playoffs door.

The wards of head coach Bonnie Tan even ended the year in style, shooting down PBA guest team Eastern, 120-113, before going on a three-week break.

While the respite is certainly a huge help, especially with the grueling schedule, Tan felt the break might be a bit too long and he’s concerned that his players might lose their edge and momentum heading into the second half of their assignments.

"We spoke about that side regarding the long break. And I told the team they're all professionals naman. So dapat yung conditioning nila andun pa rin, yung timing (andun pa rin) to continue the good run sa mga nakuha naming panalo," said Tan.

NorthPort last played Dec. 20 and will still not be seeing action until PBA’s third playdate for 2025 on Jan. 8.

On top of that, the team is bracing for a loaded stretch where it is set to face powerhouses Ginebra, Meralco, Rain or Shine and San Miguel.

Even with the distractions and celebrations, NorthPort star Arvin Tolentino assured that their goal of making the playoffs would not be lost to him and his teammates.

“Mataas yung morale namin kasi isa malakas na team din itong Eastern and natalo namin tapos bounce back game pa namin iyon. I guess we are okay kasi mabigat yung remaining games namin next year,” said the Batang Pier star.

As great as the conference has been for NorthPort, Tan warned his players from complacency and instead show the sense of urgency now that they are one win away from securing a spot to the playoffs.

“If we can get the magic number para sa playoff spot why not here na, habang siniswerte pa,” said Tan.

“Sabi ko nga sa kanila mahirap makakuha ng wins dito sa PBA so why not get it sa chance na yung runs natin na wag putulin and continue lang yung good runs kasi minsan lang mangyari itong blessing na ito,” he added.