PHOENIX puts the solo lead on the line when it battles defending champion Cafe France today in the PBA D League Foundation Cup at Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.
The Accelerators and Bakers clash at 6 p.m. in their first meeting since the memorable Game 5 tussle in the Aspirants Cup finals won by Phoenix.
Phoenix picked up its seventh win in eight games following a 109-70 whipping of AMA Computer Education last Thursday and coach Eric Gonzales believes his squad is finally playing with the consistency needed to succeed in the tournament.
“The players are being responsible now and they’re getting ready for the important games,” said Gonzales.
“The coaches have been talking about consistency and we’re slowly achieving that.”
FEU standouts Mike Tolomia and RR Pogoy starred in the win over AMA with the playmaker finishing with a triple double of 23 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists.
Cafe France is aching for payback and with the core of the squad from the Aspirants Cup finals run, retained, the Bakers fancy their chances against the Accelerators.
“It will be a good game and I know both teams want to win badly,” said Macaraya.
“We all know that if we play Phoenix, it’s all about who’s going to be on top (of the league). The competitive spirit for both teams will always be there.”
Topstar ZC Mindanao shoots for a breakthrough victory against AMA in the first game at 4 p.m.
The Aguilas are hoping to climb out of the cellar after losing their first eight games while the Titans are seeking a second win in seven outings. Cedelf P. Tupas