ALASKA tries to stretch the momentum of its newfound strength as the Aces stake their mettle against the second-running Meralco Bolts in the Philippine Basketball Association Governors’ Cup today at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
After losing 14 straight games, the Aces have breathed life to their campaign and strung three victories which they hope to extend even more against the Bolts (6-2) in the 4:15 p.m. game.
Star (4-3), meanwhile, tries to snap a three-game slide when it tackles GlobalPort (3-5) at 7 p.m.
But Alaska coach Alex Compton said his wards have to work doubly hard today.
“This is a tough situation for us,” Alaska Head Coach Alex Comption said. “We have what is a must-win against one of the very best teams in our league.”
The Aces are on a roll and beat San Miguel (90-79), GlobalPort (101-88) and Kia Picanto (102-94) one after the other to suddenly contend for a berth in the playoffs.
LaDontae Henton has been striking it big for the Aces and has averages of 30.75 points, 12.38 rebounds in more than 43 minutes of action.
Against Picanto, he had a double-double of 20 points and 13 boards to support Calvin Abueva’s monstrous 26-15 game.
If the Aces have Henton, the Bolts are sure to rely on Allen Durham, who scored 29 points, grabbed 27 rebounds and dished out seven assists when they trounced the Hotshots last Saturday, 96-90.
“Alaska is on a roll so we must be well-prepared,” Meralco Head Coach Norman Black said.