At A Glance
- Magnolia is looking to extend its winning run to three just before the PBA break as it takes on Group B leader Phoenix in the Season 50 Governors' Cup at the Ynares Center in Antipolo on Wednesday, Aug. 12
Magnolia is looking to extend its winning run to three just before the PBA break as it takes on Group B leader Phoenix in the Season 50 Governors’ Cup at the Ynares Center in Antipolo on Wednesday, Aug. 12
The Hotshots, who are currently on a roll with two straight victories following a roller-coaster start, face the Fuel Masters who have defeated the LA Tenorio-mentored squad in their last two meetings this season.
Tip-off of the clash is at 7:30 p.m. with Tenorio firing up his charges to finally arrest the dry spell against Phoenix. Raising the curtain is the Group A battle between San Miguel and Titan Ultra at 5:15 p.m.
For Magnolia, a victory in the contest would allow it to move past the .500 mark in the standings. The Hotshots are currently at the 3-3 spot in tie with the Blackwater Bossing from third to fourth spots while the Fuel Masters share the lead with the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters with similar 4-2 slates.
“Honestly we want to win, definitely we will prepare against Phoenix pero di pa kami nanalo sa Phoenix so I think that’s enough motivation for us going into this game. It’s not gonna be easy,” said Tenorio.
The Fuel Masters defeated the Hotshots, 98-86, in the first round of the eliminations. In the Commissioner's Cup, Phoenix also took down Magnolia, 101-98. The Hotshots' only victory over the Fuel Masters came in the Philippine Cup when they barely escaped with an 83-80 win.
For Tenorio, such outcomes simply show how Phoenix rose from mid-tier team to a tournament dark horse.
“Phoenix is in good hands with coach Charles and players are really responding well.
Good import. So let's see. I haven't thought about it but we'll prepare for these practices. We'll definitely be ready,” added Tenorio.