Barako Bull and Alaska clash against separate powerhouses Friday seeking a share of the early lead in the PBA Governors’ Cup eliminations at Ynares Center in Antipolo.
The Energy, who roared to a 3-0 start in the Commissioner’s Cup before faltering, battle Talk ‘N Text at 4:15 p.m. seeking to go deeper in the playoffs with import Liam McMorrow.
Alaska also guns for a 3-0 start when it collides with the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters in the featured game at 7 p.m.
McMorrow is a 7-foot behemoth who can control action in the paint and his massive presence has given his local teammates all the confidence to shoot from the outside. The NBA veteran shows the willingness to chase down every offensive rebound.
JC Intal has been the prime local for the Energy, but he will be having his hands full against the loaded Talk ‘N Text lineup.
The Tropang Texters, who won the Commissioner’s Cup in seven games over the Painters, also have two imports in American Steffphon Pettigrew and Jordanian Sam Daghles.
Talk ‘N Text won its debut even with Ranidel de Ocampo, Jason Castro, Aaron Aban and Kevin Alas sitting it out because of injuries.
Alaska’s Romeo Travis will be tested by the Rain or Shine defense, more so since the Painters lost in their debut a couple of nights back.
Travis went full throttle against Barangay Ginebra the last time out, showing that he is more than just a close friend and high school teammate of NBA superstar LeBron James.
“He’s a very smart player,” Alaska coach Alex Compton said of Travis, whom he also described as somewhat of a coach on the floor.
Cyrus Baguio, JV Casio, Sonny Thoss and Dondon Hontiveros will again lead Alaska together with Calvin Abueva.
Wendell McKinis will have to atone for an 18-point debut for the Painters, who are getting the usual numbers from super point guard Paul Lee.