Isaac upbeat on Blackwater’s outright semis chances

MANILA, Philippines—Blackwater Sports head coach Leo Isaac is bracing for a physical game against veteran-laden Cebuana Lhuillier Tuesday at the Trinity University of Asia gym.

A game that the Elite as well as the Gems need as the  teams continue to jockey for position in the PBA D-League Aspirants Cup.

“I expect their [Gems] usual physical game and we are prepared for it. I also like our chances of solidifying our hold on second place,” said Isaac.

Blackwater (5-2) may be in a good position at No. 2 but it can’t afford to lose with Cagayan and Big Chill just a half game behind at the No. 3 spot with identical 5-3 cards.

A win would give the Elite a full-game cushion and Isaac is confident of his team’s chances.

“We started practice last January 4 after two weeks of Christmas break. That’s more than enough time to prepare. By game day we will be ready,” Isaac said.

The Gems (3-4), currently out of the playoff picture at seventh place tied with Air21-JRU with a 3-4 mark, will be a different team with James Martinez in tow.

Meanwhile, streaking Fruitas (4-3) looks to push its winning run to four games when it tangles with JRU, which has also been on a roll as of late.

The Heavy Bombers are coming off a 66-62 win over Cafe France last Tuesday while the Shakers held off Informatics, 85-74, on the same day.