PBA: Bolts out to keep lead vs NLEX

JOSH Davis (right) seen here driving against Ginebra’s Japeth Aguilar is a doubtful starter for Meralco after getting injured in an out-of-town match. EDWIN BACASMAS

MANILA, Philippines—Easily the biggest surprises of the tournament so far along with Kia, Meralco and Barako Bull hope to sustain their impressive runs when they square off with separate rivals Friday in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

But the pacesetting Bolts could miss hard-working import Josh Davis as they shoot for their sixth win in seven games against the NLEX Road Warriors at 7 tonight.

Davis, who is averaging 20 points and 17 rebounds through six games, is listed as day-to-day after suffering a severe muscle contusion. The 6-foot-8 import fell hard on the floor in the second quarter of a blowout loss to San Miguel Beer in a PBA Petron Special road game in Cagayan de Oro last Saturday and did not return.

But the Bolts remain hopeful that Davis recovers in time for the game as the import has seamlessly fit into coach Norman Black’s system and has formed a dynamic 1-2 punch with gunner Gary David.

The Road Warriors remain a dangerous foe as they are coming off a morale-boosting 100-93 win over the San Miguel Beermen last Tuesday.

The Energy clash with the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters in the curtain-raiser at 4:15 p.m with the winner gaining a share of second spot with the Talk ‘N Text Tropang Texters.

Barako Bull’s 4-2 record has come as a pleasant surprise for coach Koy Banal, who said it is a reflection of the hard work the Energy have put in the tournament.

“We don’t have the most competitive of lineups compared to other teams,” said Energy coach Koy Banal. “But the players have shown a willingness to work hard, that’s why we’ve been winning.”

Barako Bull is coming off a thrilling 93-91 overtime victory over Alaska last Tuesday with import Solomon Alabi draining the winning shot with 2.1 seconds remaining. Dave Marcelo also starred in the victory with 18 points.

The Elasto Painters are also on a roll with back-to-back victories, including a 99-89 trouncing of Alaska last Friday. Sidelined by a swollen elbow against the Aces, Paul Lee is expected to return for Rain or Shine.

Wayne Chism, who led the Elasto Painters to the semifinals of the Commissioner’s Cup last year, scattered 24 points in his return to Rain or Shine—a performance that drew praise from coach Yeng Guiao.

“Wayne’s game justifies his presence for us,” Guiao said of Chism, who replaced Rick Jackson.