SMB, Ginebra face tough test

SAN MIGUEL Beer will lean on an explosive import while Barangay Ginebra hopes to flash its new-found defensive character when the two squads face tough opponents in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup Wednesday at Ynares Center in Antipolo City.

Tyler Wilkerson and the Beermen battle Blackwater at 4:15 p.m., a game which will be followed by the match between the Kings and the Mahindra Enforcers.

The Kings defeated the Star Hotshots, 92-87, in their much-awaited matchup with the team making key stops when they  needed it.

“I think it was the character of the team defensively,” said LA Tenorio, who made the biggest shots in that win. “We showed our willingness to play defense, especially our big guys.”

GREG Slaughter (right) will be the center of attention for Barangay Ginebra—and Mahindra—in tonight’s ballgame. AUGUST DELA CRUZ

Greg Slaughter and Japeth Aguilar joined forces with Othyus Jeffers in manning the paint while Ginebra’s determined backcourt closed out on the shooters.

Wilkerson erupted for 52 points in a 120-109 win over GlobalPort and SMB coach Leo Austria hopes his superhuman effort won’t be just a flash in the pan.

“He’s an import who can provide us what we need, but the locals will have to do their share, too,” said Austria.

Mahindra, reinforced by Augustus Gilchrist, is enjoying the view near the top of the ladder at 3-1, capped by 106-99 win over the NLEX Road Warriors.

The Elite also have a fantastic import in Malcolm Rhett, who had 30 points and 20 rebounds in a 122-103 defeat against the Hotshots, but they have to gain consistency to further jack up their 2-2 record.