Alaska debuts vs TNT tonight

DAVE Marcelo (10) of Talk ‘N Text draws a charging foul from Danny Seigle of Barako Bull in the Tropang Texters’ debut game. AUGUST DELA CRUZ

Barring another heavy downpour that yesterday paralyzed many parts of Metro Manila, Alaska makes its much-anticipated PBA Governors’ Cup debut today by clashing with short-handed Talk ‘N Text at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Game time is 7:30 p.m. with the Aces seeking another strong start in their quest for a second straight title against a Tropang Texters squad that will continue to miss its national team stalwarts.

Jason Castro, Larry Fonacier, Ranidel de Ocampo and Jimmy Alapag will still be out of action for the Texters, who found a way to win their own debut, 113-108, in overtime against Barako Bull.

But the four’s absence could be an altogether different story for the Texters as they take on one of the most complete teams in the field with a reinforcement that is said to be one of the league’s finest.

Wendell McKines boasts of impressive NBA D-League credentials. But perhaps what makes him special is the fact that he is seeing action for a squad which he joined in its bonus trip to the United States last month.

“I will be playing with a very special group of guys, a closely knit bunch,” McKines told the Inquirer.

“I have heard so many stories about this team.”

Tony Mitchell, who shot 44 points in that victory over the Energy, will lead the Texters.

Meanwhile, Globalport tries to take advantage of the off-form San Mig Coffee Mixers in the 5:15 p.m. game, looking to duplicate a franchise-best 2-1 start the Batang Pier had in the Commissioner’s Cup.

The Batang Pier trounced Air21 in the inaugurals but fell by the wayside against Rain or Shine in Antipolo on Saturday.