Casio on playing Ginebra: “There’s always pressure”

MANILA -- After ekeing out a narrow win over Meralco Monday night, the Alaska Aces earned the last playoff spot and the right to face the top team in the league – Barangay Ginebra San Miguel.

The Aces, who ended the elimination round with a 5-9 card, will take on a very potent Ginebra squad that has a twice-to-beat advantage after finishing with an 11-3 record.

For Alaska, to beat the number one team in the league is a tall order and point guard JVee Casio says the team understands they will be playing with their backs are against the wall.

“There's always pressure, we just have to give everything and work as a team,” said Casio in an exclusive interview with Solar Sports Desk.

“In this type of game, you have to play your best… especially on our side since it's a do-or-die game.”

In the 2014 MyDSL Philippine Cup, Casio is averaging 14.9 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 4.0 assists, while also shooting 35% from beyond the arc.

During the eliminations, Alaska lost to Ginebra, 89-96, in their only encounter but Casio finished with a game-high 27 points, making 10 of 17 shots - including three triples.

Against the Gin Kings, Casio will be going toe-to-toe with LA Tenorio - one of the premiere guards in the PBA - but shares he isn’t focused on their matchup but rather on the Aces' performance.

“Playing against very good point guards in the PBA, you want to be competitive with them. But to win, it should be a total team effort, not only one guy.”

The battle between Alaska and Barangay Ginebra is set for Wednesday 8pm at the MOA Arena following the Rain or Shine-GlobalPort matchup at 5:45 pm.