TNT, for sure, will try to stay locked-in on its schemes and use its strengths. Barangay Ginebra, on the other hand, will formulate ways to regain bearing and rhythm.
That's the backdrop as the Tropang Giga and the Kings resume their PBA Governors' Cup championship dispute, with TNT gunning for a 2-0 lead Wednesday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
On Sunday over at the Ynares Sports Center in Antipolo, Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and his teammates were on target on offense and much more on defense, making things miserable for the Kings in a dominant 104-88 victory.
"We know the strength of Ginebra. We looked at the numbers and we focused really on that - taking away their strengths and really making sure we lean on our strength which is our ability to stop teams and play defense," said coach Chot Reyes.
Game One came down to which team was able to impose on another. And that could well still be the mindset for both in Round 2 that tips off at 7:30 p.m. at the Big Dome.
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The Tropang Giga dominated the series kickoff but they're not to sit on their laurels, knowing they're still very far from their desired destination. The Kings, on the other hand, are disappointed on their Game One showing but aren't disheartened.
Coach Tim Cone knew what hit them and accepted the fact that the onus is on them to adjust to be able to fight back.
"We have to run around and move on, see what we can do to change our fortunes in Game Two. We'll see what we can do about it," said Cone.
First thing in mind should be on how to come out of TNT's defensive shackles and find ways to put the ball in the hoops.
As the league's best three-point shooting team, Ginebra was pitiful in being held to 0-of-18 from the three-point arc through the first three quarters.
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The Tropang Giga ran away with a 16-point triumph as they limited the Kings to 2-of-21 three-point clip overall.
"When we got off to a good start defensively, I think that set the tone for the game and there's no secret to our game - it's really our defense. I think defense really won it for us," said Reyes.
As their defensive ploy clicked, the Tropang Giga's offense followed, with RHJ, Rey Nambatac, Poy Erram, Jayson Castro and RR Pogoy all scoring in double figures in the series opener played before a packed crowd in the Antipolo venue.
A big crowd is also expected for Game Two which could be a humdinger of a fight.(SB)
