D-League: R. Warriors eye semis, face Gems

Streaking NLEX  tries to clinch its place in the semifinals today when it clashes with league leader Cebuana Lhuillier in the PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup at the San Juan Gym.

The Road Warriors are gunning for their seventh straight win against the Gems in their first meeting since NLEX swept Cebuana for the Foundation Cup title.

And NLEX coach Boyet Fernandez expects a championship-like atmosphere when the two teams clash today.

“This game is all about pride,” said Fernandez. “Obviously, Cebuana is aching to avenge their loss in last conference’s finals. On the other hand we are aiming for the semifinals. So this game is almost like a finals match.”

With an 8-1 record, the Gems, riding high on a five-game winning run, already secured their place in the semifinals.

With Freego Jeans losing for the third time last week, the Road Warriors now have the inside track for the remaining semifinal berth.

Blackwater hopes to stay in contention for a quarterfinal berth when it battles Big Chill in the first game at 2 p.m.

The game is also important for the Superchargers, who are shooting for the twice-to-beat edge in the quarterfinals.

The Elite, struggling to regain the fearsome form that won them their first three games, got a reprieve when PBA Commissioner Chito Salud nullified Cobra Energy Drink’s 72-63 victory against the Elite last Monday.

Cobra fielded an ineligible player during the game—a violation under league rules, prompting Salud to award the win to Blackwater.

The Elite are still in the running a twice-to-beat advantage in the next round should they win their last two games.