Talk ‘N Text, Barako Bull dispute semis lead in Game Three

Talk ‘N Text tries to grab the upper hand in its semifinal series against Barako Bull in Game Three of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup Saturday at the Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay City.

The Tropang Texters and the Energy collide at 7:10 p.m. with the winner taking a 2-1 lead in the best-of-five series.

Talk ‘N Text tied the duel with a dominant 123-98 win last Thursday behind balanced scoring and superb defense.

Eight players scored at least nine points for coach Chot Reyes, with import Donnell Harvey bouncing back from a nine-point performance in Game One with 24 points, 10 rebounds and three blocks.

Ranidel de Ocampo had 18 points, Larry Fonacier contributed 14, Ryan Reyes netted 12, Kelly Wiliams chipped in 12, Jimmy Alapag had 12, Jason Castro finished with 10 and Jared Dillinger listed nine in a total display of teamwork for the defending champions.

But Reyes cautioned his players that Barako Bull has the capability to bounce back from a 25-point loss.

“I told them that Barako is a very deep team, they’re very experienced and we won’t be able to surprise them. Hindi sila titiklop,” said Reyes.

“We just have to be prepared for their adjustments in Game Three. I don’t know it’s physically possible. It’s very, very physical out there.”

Gabe Freeman and Don Allado each had 20 points for the Energy in Game Two but they just simply had no answer on Talk ‘N Text’s onslaught.

“The desire to exert extra effort on both ends of the court is a must for us,” said Barako Bull mentor Junel Baculi. “Also, we must play above the calls of the refs.”

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