PBA: Ricardo Ratliffe looks forward to first ‘Manila Clasico’

Magnolia Hotshots import import Ricardo Ratliffe in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup. –PBA IMAGES

MANILA, Philippines—After breaking a four-game losing streak in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup, Magnolia import Ricardo Ratliffe has already set his sights on the Hotshots’ next obstacle.

On Friday, Ratcliffe powered Magnolia past NLEX in overtime, 99-95, at Philsports Arena to break a four-game losing skid and improve to 2-4.

READ: PBA: Magnolia routs Blackwater in Ricardo Ratliffe’s return

Up next for the Hotshots is the much-anticipated game against league rival Ginebra, in a game known as Manila Clasico, on Christmas Day.

Ratliffe is more than ready for that challenge that he’s taking on for the first time despite being a returning import for the Hotshots.

“I’m looking forward to it. I know it’s the biggest rivalry in this league. I didn’t get a chance to play my first two times because I came as a replacement. I usually come around right before the playoffs because of my season in Korea,” said Ratcliffe.

“I’m definitely looking forward to Christmas and playing in my first rivalry game.”

READ: Now a naturalized South Korean, Ricardo Ratliffe still relishes stints in PH

Ratliffe played tormentor to the Road Warriors as he dropped a monster game to the tune of a 38-point and 19-rebound double-double.

The American-South Korean enforcer for the Hotshots looks to do the same when he goes on his first Manila Clasico game in a few days.

But while Ratliffe is excited about the storied rivalry game, coach Chito Victolero is looking at Magnolia’s next game with a more intense outlook.

“We are in a do-or-die situation. We put on our playoff mindsets early,” said Victolero.

“I think we’re nearing the exit so we need to have that sense of urgency to play better,” added the top tactician.

Ratliffe and the Hotshots clash with the Gin Kings on Christmas Day at Araneta Coliseum to cap off a Holiday double-header, following a bout between Converge and Meralco.