The Barangay Ginebra San Miguel is scheduled for a head-to-head game against the Phoenix Super LPG Fuelmasters at 5:45 PM on March 3, 2023 live from the Smart Araneta Coliseum at Quezon City, Metro Manila.
The Gin Kings will try to push their winning rampage to three consecutive victories while the Fuelmasters wanted to challenge that as they themselves are eyeing their fifth win and keep their winning ways to four in a row.
Barangay Ginebra Kings will be looking to book their place in the playoffs with a win against the Phoenix Super LPG Fuel Masters in their PBA Governors Cup matchup on Friday. The Kings secured a come-from-behind win over Meralco Bolts, with Christian Standhardinger, Justin Brownlee, Jamie Malonzo, and Jeremiah Gray leading the charge. The victory kept Ginebra in strong contention for the Top 4 and a twice-to-beat incentive in the quarterfinals. Coach Tim Cone was proud of his team’s performance, saying, “I can’t be proud enough of Justin, Jamie, and Scottie. They did not manage to (rest) and practice, yet lo and behold, they showed up straight to the game and led the team.”
The Fuel Masters, meanwhile, have won their last three matches, defeating Terrafirma, Converge, and Rain or Shine to stay in contention for a playoff spot. Coach Jamike Jarin’s side is now eighth in the standings and has a chance to hit the .500 mark for the first time in the tournament. However, the Kings’ recent form and experience make them strong favorites in the match.
Despite a depleted squad and fatigue, the Kings have managed to churn out excellent performances. In their previous match, Standhardinger was outstanding, putting up near triple-double numbers. He scored 31 points and had ten rebounds, seven assists, and two blocks against Meralco Bolts. Justin Brownlee, who contributed 29 markers, seven boards, and six dish-offs, and Jamie Malonzo, who fired away 16 points, also impressed in the game.
Coach Cone praised his team’s effort and said, “The guys instinctively tightened the reins, and it lifted us defensively. They stepped up on their own and played big.” The Kings’ relentless performance has put them in a strong position to secure a playoff spot with a victory over Phoenix.
The Fuel Masters’ recent form and confidence will make them a tricky opponent. However, Ginebra’s experience in high-pressure situations could prove to be the difference. The Kings will be hoping for another inspiring performance from their star players as they aim to win number six in eight games.
Coach Jarin knows that his side faces a tough task against the defending champions but is confident in his players. “We just have to bring our A-game against a powerhouse team. We need to play our game and make things happen for us. If we do that, we’ll have a chance,” he said.
The match promises to be an exciting one, with both teams eager to secure a playoff spot. The Kings will be favorites, but Phoenix has shown that they are capable of causing an upset. Fans can expect an intense battle between two top-quality teams at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.