Red-hot Ginebra poses tough test for Meralco

Barangay Ginebra San Miguel is not only the most popular team in the PBA — it is also the hottest squad in the Commissioner’s Cup.

And that is a cause for concern for Meralco coach Ryan Gregorio, whose Bolts will take on the Gin Kings on Sunday.

“We are playing the hottest team in the league. It is an amazing streak considering that (Mark) Caguioa is not even playing,” said Gregorio.

“(LA) Tenorio is running the show, so he must be shackled while V-Mack’s (Vernon Macklin) dominance in the shaded lane must be addressed.”

Gregorio hopes his team has enough energy to ground the streaking Ginebra quintet as the Bolts are coming off a tiring 102-92 win over Petron Blaze behind a 57-point game from Eric Dawson.

“We acknowledge the fact that stopping a rampaging Ginebra is no easy feat, but definitely workable,” added Gregorio.

“One day preparation after Friday’s game is also a challenge since Ginebra is coming off a rest. While our victory against Petron generated an enormous confidence boost, tremendous effort must be rendered if we want to follow it up with a win against the Kings.”

Again, Meralco will be banking on Dawson and the support of the locals led by Mark Cardona, Reynel Hugnatan, Chris Ross and Cliff Hodge.

Gregorio said their last two wins were guided by their strong offense but against the Kings, defense must be existent.

“Obvious that our offense has been in sync the past two games, we’ve hit 100 point mark, but against Ginebra, defense will be the key,” said Gregorio.

SOURCE: Interaksyon