Dead even.
That’s how many people view the coming finals’ showdown of the 2018 Philippine Basketball Association Governors’ Cup pitting title-hungry squads Magnolia and Alaska.
The best-of-seven finale between the Hotshots and the Aces is expected to be a toss-up as both teams present almost equal weapons, having prolific imports and supporting casts.
Leading Best Import candidates Mike Harris of Alaska and Romeo Travis of Magnolia are expected to lead the charge for the squads in the battle for supremacy.
Both sides see a tough and even battle ahead.
“It’s always tough playing Magnolia. We’re expecting nothing but a grind-out series ahead against these guys,” said Alaska coach Alex Compton in the finals’ official press conference yesterday. “I have high a respect for them (Hotshots) but I love my team.”
“It will be a battle of execution. Both teams are capable of winning,” said Magnolia coach Chito Victolero. “We are positive that we have the ability to get the championship.”
The sub-story for their encounter ahead is the past between Travis and Alaska.
Travis used to be the Aces’ import in the 2015 version of the tournament where he took Alaska to the finals before getting swept by San Miguel Beer.
That was also the time when Travis won his first Best Import award.
Now, he is on the other side as he tries to give Magnolia what he fell short off when he was with Alaska.
“The history is there but the goal remains the same and that is to help our team win the championship against them. That’s the thing for me,” said Travis.
The finals start on Dec. 5 at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
At the moment, the league is on a two-week break to support the National team’s bid in the next window of the FIBA World Cup Qualifiers.