Ginebra, Powerade shoot for key wins versus Alaska, Air 21

AKTV/Paolo Papa

Barangay Ginebra and Powerade gun for an important win against separate foes in the PBA Governors’ Cup Friday at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum.

The Kings try to get back in the hunt for a spot in the semis as they seek a win against eliminated Alaska at 5:15 p.m.

The Tigers shoot for a victory that will formalize their entry in the next round in their 7:30 p.m. meeting with Air 21.

Ginebra is at the middle of the standings with a 3-3 slate and is coming off a heart-breaking 86-83 loss to Powerade last time out.

Kings coach Siot Tanquingcen said the game is very important for the team but his concern is the players might not feel the urgency because their opponent is already out of the running.

“We can’t take any team for granted. Alaska has a proud tradition so whatever the circumstance is we have to come out and play hard and earn it,” said Tanquingcen.

The Aces of coach Luigi Trillo were the first to see the exit door in the season-ending conference after tallying a 1-6 slate.

In the night cap, Powerade tries to extend its winning streak to five games against the Express.

The Tigers are on a roll behind the solid performances of Omar Sneed and Gary David but coach Bo Perasol also cautions his wards not to relax against the 1-5 Express.

“We fully understand what is at stake in our game tomorrow (today),” said Perasol. “However, we cannot burden ourselves with anything that will hinder us from playing hard for the whole 48 minutes.”

Air 21’s chances of entering the next phase got dimmed following its 106-77 defeat to Meralco last Wednesday.

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