Black, Texters battle Express

Expect Jason Castro to lead Talk ‘N Text against Air21. August dela Cruz

Talk ‘N Text has finally gotten enough time to adjust to new coach Norman Black, something that Air21 should be wary of when both squads tangle in the PBA Philippine Cup at Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.

The defending champions went through anxious moments against Globalport last Friday, a day after Black steered Ateneo to a fifth straight UAAP title. Black’s commitment with the Eagles kept him out of handling Talk ‘N Text full time before the start of the season.

But that was five full days ago. Since then, Black has given the Tropang Texters his full attention and they could be a far deadlier squad when they clash with the dangerous Express at 7:30 p.m.

“It’s pretty much a work in progress for me,” said Black, who won a Grand Slam with San Miguel Beer in 1989 and has made a PBA comeback after last handling Sta. Lucia in 2002.

Black was supposed to sit down that game against Globalport, but the prospect of losing made him call the shots.

“There was a lot of miscommunication and sira (broken) plays,” Black said. “Our focus right now is to try and get as many wins as possible and get the blending down. When that happens, we’ll be a much better team.”

Meanwhile, Meralco shoots for a third straight win in the 5:15 p.m. opener against winless Globalport, with the Bolts hoping to ride the momentum of a huge victory over Barangay Ginebra San Miguel in Digos, Davao del Norte, last Saturday.

The Batang Pier are expected to be without last season’s leading local scorer, Gary David, for a second straight outing because of an injured left knee. David sat it out against the Texters.