Setting the Expectations: SMB, Magnolia Aim to Seize Momentum in Game 3

Photo by the PBA Media Bureau

PBA fans should expect more intense battle coming off a long break

After a week-long Lenten hiatus, the PBA returns to action as the San Miguel Beermen and the Magnolia Hotshots are scheduled to face each other anew in Game 3 of the best -of-7 Philippine Cup Finals series. With the series tied at 1-1, this game is crucial because whoever gets Game 3 will only need two more wins to clinch the championship.

With the long break, both teams surely rested their players especially in the case of the Beermen who have been playing with an unhealthy crew all throughout the playoffs. If the long break enabled San Miguel to regain their healthy form, then Magnolia will be having a long night tonight.

What to expect?

• With Chris Ross nearing his return to his healthy form, fans can expect the league's best all-Filipino first five to come out firing from all cylinders. Mind you, Chirs Ross had 5 points and 10 assists for San Miguel in their Game 2 victory and even said that it was the best he felt since hurting himself. Magnolia should also expect more from June Mar Fajardo especially now that the backcourt of San Miguel is healthy again. Knowing the importance of a win tonight, Fajardo is expected to unleash the beast inside him and when that happens, the Hotshots should be prepared. 
• For Magnolia, they will rely on their veterans such as Mark Barroca, Peter June Simon, and Rafi Reavis to lead them against the favored San Miguel squad. But one of the major things that San Miguel should expect tonight is Paul Lee's explosion. In both Game 1 and 2, the Leethal Weapon has been shooting bricks so if anything, the long break has hopefully enabled Paul Lee to regain his offensive brilliance because that's one of the things that Magnolia will sorely need.
• Fans should definitely expect a fierce battle between two proud teams. It will be a battle of San Miguel's offensive attack going up against the pressure defense of Magnolia. In fact, don't get surprised if Game 3 will go down the wire. 

Conclusion

While many have already predicted that San Miguel will take Game 3, Magnolia has been known as a team who doesn't back down as evident by their comeback win in the series opener. Regardless of who will win, the PBA fans are surely up for a same that they will enjoy. 

Happy Easter, everyone!