Aces seek lead share vs Elite; Hotshots face B. Pier

Alaska guns for a share of the lead while Star seeks to build on its strong game the last time out when they mix it up with teams that dropped their first games in the Smart Bro PBA Philippine Cup at Mall of Asia Arena.

A victory in the 4:15 p.m. clash against Blackwater Elite will give the Aces a share of the early lead with Rain or Shine, NLEX and San Miguel Beer.

The Hotshots, riding high on their 86-78 demolition of the Ginebra Gin Kings last Sunday, shoot for a second straight victory against the GlobalPort Batang Pier at 7 p.m.

The Aces made a rousing debut last Friday when they overpowered a retooled Talk ’N Text squad, 114-98, in a performance that surprised even coach Alex Compton himself.

Although he was away due to his national team commitment, Compton watched his Aces play sharp and tenacious and he’s hoping they can continue their fine form against a dangerous Elite squad.

“I was away for two months, but the coaching staff prepared this team well,” said Compton, who drew a huge game from Vic Manuel with 22 points and 20 rebounds.

The Elite unleashed a late run that ultimately fell short against the Road Warriors, 86-90, last Friday.

But Blackwater coach Leo Isaac is taking plenty of encouragement from his team’s performance, particularly rookie Keith Agovida who had 15 points and five rebounds in his debut.

The Hotshots will miss Allein Maliksi due to a team-imposed suspension after posts on his social media account, complaining about his playing time under new coach Jason Webb.

Webb said the Hotshots will have their hands full against the Batang Pier who dropped an 86-97 decision to San Miguel last Saturday in a road game in Davao City.

“They’re definitely a good team,” said Webb. “They have one of the most explosive backcourts in the league, so I think it’s a test for our guards.”

The Batang Pier hope for an improved showing from ace guard Terrence Romeo, who was held to just five points in the loss to San Miguel.

“I’m still trying to feel my way back to the team, but of course I expect to be better in the next games,” Romeo, who spent the off-season playing for Gilas Pilipinas, said in Filipino.