 |
| Photo by: PBA Media Bureau
Since Rain or Shine arrived in
the PBA, Barangay Ginebra has been a rival to them. The Kings once defeated the
Painters in the quarterfinals even though they have a twice to win
disadvantage. But in another conference with the same scenario, the Painters
won after a crucial call went in favor of them. Now, they are to clash in a
best of 3 quarterfinal series starting this Sunday at 5:15 PM. Here are my
predictions in this exciting series.
1. Jeff Chan will carry Rain or Shine on his
shoulders
We know what this man is capable
of doing. He can slash, shoot and score. Jeff can easily catch fire and knock
down jumpers against great defenses. He has proven this not only in this league,
but also in international competitions. Also, he just won his 'Player of the
Week' citation after they defeated Blackwater Elite and therefore boost their
chances in the quarterfinals.
2. Ginebra's defense will bite
Hater or fan of this team, let's
all admit that Ginebra has been playing defense really good. They won back to
back games heading into the playoffs with a huge difference in terms of their
scoring and the opponents scoring. The Painters have to watch out for the quick
hands of Ginebra's guards and solid defense from its tall frontline.
3. RoS will aim to win fast break
opportunities
Of course it is very common to
play a fast tempo offense against a triangle offense oriented team. This will
push Ginebra to follow their own tempo; therefore rushing the plays of the
Kings. Expect Rain or Shine to run fast breaks and shoot a lot of 3 pointers.
Still, people should be aware that Ginebra's guards have already learned
patience in setting up plays.
4. L.A. Tenorio will have a hard
time scoring
L.A. has been carrying this team
together with Slaughter and Jeffers but expect him to put up lower points. Why?
Norwood will stand on his way. I predict that Coach Yeng will assign the
6'5" Norwood to stop the 5'9" Tenorio. Aside from Norwood, the
6'5" Ahanmisi will also help in defending Ginebra's guards particularly
the 'Gineral'.
5. Ginebra will win the series
very closely: 2-1
Ginebra already won their
match-up against this team in the elimination round. They also are on a roll
for the past 2 games. But this prediction will only come true if they will
stretch their defense and guard the perimeter shooters of their opponent. Also,
looking at Pierre Henderson-Niles, it is safe to say that Ginebra has better
team chemistry since Henderson-Niles just arrived before their last game
against the Blackwater Elite. They just have to watch out for him since he made
a solid debut last Sunday. Nevertheless, no one should underestimate any team
since anything is possible to happen in every game.
|
.jpg)
0 Comments