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Manila Bulletin devider Sports devider Basketball devider Cone says Magnolia still formidable ahead of their 'Clasico' duel

Cone says Magnolia still formidable ahead of their 'Clasico' duel

Published Aug 1, 2026 02:06 pm

At A Glance

  • Game is at 7:30 p.m. with the two teams adding the first of the two chapters of their Manila Clasico rivalry in store for PBA fans in the eliminations of the season-ending conference.
Early results can be deceiving.
Barangay Ginebra head coach Tim Cone knows that better than most, having spend decades in the PBA. For the multiple champion tactician, a slow start rarely defines a team’s true potential.
That’s exactly what Con reminded to his players as the Kings clash with the Magnolia Hotshots still groping for form in the in the PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Sunday, Aug. 2.
Game is at 7:30 p.m. with the two teams adding the first of the two chapters of their Manila Clasico rivalry in store for PBA fans in the eliminations of the season-ending conference.
Providing a fitting appetizer is the clash between the streaking Rain or Shine and the undermanned Meralco at 5:15 p.m.
Despite owning the better record in Group B, Cone believes Magnolia is playing better than its win-loss mark suggests and could be poised for a big run after a couple of near victories in their last few games.
“Not struggling as much as we are. These early results in conferences, I think we make too big of a deal of them,” said Cone as the Kings hold on to a 2-2 record while the Hotshots are currently at the bottom with a 1-4 slate.
“I remember one time when TNT got beat by, like, 15 points in their first game and then 19 points in the second game, and everybody was like nothing. And then they go on a seven-game winning streak, go into the finals and sweep the finals. I remember in our grand slam year with Alaska, we came out and lost our first three games. And then we won our next 11 straight. So, you know, early results are early results,” he added.
For Cone, his team should remain laser focused against the Hotshots, who he believes has the talent and coaching wits to just simply turn things around.
“You always want to get ahead. You always want to be on top of the standings. But, you know, you don't panic when you don't. And I don't think Magnolia is going to panic,” said Cone.
“I know L.A. I know what kind of personality he has. He's not a guy who panics. They're going to figure it out. And hopefully they figure it out after we play them on Sunday,” he added.

Related Tags

Tim Cone Magnolia Hotshots Ginebra Gin Kings
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