Undermanned titleholder Barangay Ginebra is determined to keep digging, fighting, and overcoming adversity as they remain in a mad scramble for the Top 4.

The Gin Kings, who are on a hot streak despite missing key players LA Tenorio and Japeth Aguilar, will play the Terrafirma Dyip on Wednesday at the Ynares Center in Antipolo in the third and final play date of the PBA Governors Cup elimination round.

The 5:45 p.m. setto provides the Kings with an opportunity to secure sole possession of second place on the league standings and earn a twice-to-beat advantage in the quarterfinals with a record of 8-2.

This is Terrafirma’s last game of a challenging conference, and the Dyip hope to go out on top

In their most recent game, they came within seconds of pulling off an upset against the Magnolia Hotshots, but they ultimately lost a heartbreaking 121-115 overtime game.

In preparation for their match against the Gin Kings, they have packed a 2-8 card.

The Kings are currently in second place, tied with the San Miguel Beermen at 7-2, after a four-game winning streak. They have a chance to finish in first or second place at the end of the single round of elimination.

If the Kings beat Terrafirma on the final day of elimination round play on March 17, they will face the TNT Tropang Giga in a hypothetical playoff matchup.

A young player who has stepped up his game this conference is Jamie Malonzo, who said that coach Tim Cone has urged them to continue on their current path.

The Kings have responded well, and they are on track to finish in the top four, giving them a twice-to-beat advantage over the bottom four in the quarterfinals.

It doesn’t get any better than this for Cone

“Things have been absolutely insane for us. They’re incredible to watch because they keep stepping up and digging “Cone boasted about the team’s success while Tenorio and Aguilar were forced to watch from the bench.

The fact that Standhardinger has improved so much without Aguilar is “a testament to the character of the guys and the whole team,” as Cone put it.

With Tenorio out for the rest of the conference, Aguilar could soon be back in action. (SB)

Final Thoughts

The PBA Governors Cup has been a thrilling competition, with every team fighting hard to secure a spot in the top four. Despite missing key players, Barangay Ginebra has managed to stay in the race and is determined to finish strong. The upcoming game against Terrafirma provides them with an opportunity to secure sole possession of second place and earn a twice-to-beat advantage in the quarterfinals. 

On the other hand, Terrafirma is hoping to end the conference on a high note and has been preparing hard for this match. The competition promises to be intense, and it will be exciting to see how it all unfolds. Regardless of the outcome, both teams have shown remarkable resilience and grit throughout the tournament. The PBA Governors Cup Betting has been a testament to the character of the players and their commitment to the sport.