MANILA, Philippines — NLEX coach Boyet Fernandez hopes veteran guard Garvo Lanete keeps posting “MVP numbers” when the Road Warriors try to boost their outright semifinal bid against Blackwater Sports in Thursday’s rematch of last conference’s PBA D-League finals.
The Road Warriors go for an eighth victory versus an Elite side trying to bring back their champion form in the 4 p.m. duel at the Aspirants Cup at JCSGO Gym in Cubao.
“We’re hoping we can make it right away to the semis, that’s our main goal,” said Fernandez. “Hopefully Garvo can continue to help us with our drive. He’s been playing well [and delivering] MVP numbers.”
Jumbo Plastic, which has secured at least a quarterfinal slot, wraps up its elimination run against Cebuana Lhuillier at 2 p.m., while Boracay Rum and Wangs Basketball tangle at noon.
Lanete turned in another splendid 20-point effort to power the Road Warriors to a 7-1 record behind idle leader Big Chill (10-1).
Although the Road Warriors have been on a roll, Blackwater coach Leo Isaac believes his Elite can outlast the league favorites anew.
“I want to remind them that we have beaten this team last conference and we can do it again,” Isaac said of his Elite, who surprisingly swept the Road Warriors for the title last year that ended the four-time champions’ reign.
“All we have to do is to play with the same kind of intensity and enthusiasm.”
The Elite, though, hope to come out more consistent after a lackluster start over newcomer Derulo Accelero before Jericho Cruz took over to finish with 31 points in their 94-80 triumph last Tuesday.