TEAMS in the upper half of the standings battle teams from the lower half as everyone continues to jock for better position in the 2016 Philippine Basketball Association Commissioner’s Cup.
Already finding its groove, Alaska (2-1) shoots for a third straight win when it goes head to head with skidding Phoenix (1-2), loser of two in a row, at 7 p.m. Friday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
In the appetizer at 4:15 p.m., two hard-nosed teams NLEX (2-2) and struggling Rain or Shine (1-3) collide.
Winner of two straight after dropping its initial assignment, the Aces seemed to be over their heartbreaking defeat in the Philippine Cup finals.
One good reason is the scintillating play of import Shane Edwards, who is jelling quite well with his Alaska teammates.
Since taking over the chores from the injured Rob Dozier, Edwards has evidently helped Alaska’s cause as the Aces racked up consecutive wins to suddenly move up in the ladder.
“Shane (Edwards) is a great guy,” said Alaska coach Alex Compton. “We’re doing well now and I hope we keep winning these games.”
The Aces came up with a huge win in their last game, totally dominating the Elasto Painters, 128-102, with Edwards and star Calvin Abueva, who was named as the Player of the Week, leading the way.
While Alaska is starting to rack up wins, league newbie Phoenix is having the exact opposite of a stretch.
The Fuel Masters have lost their last two after winning their debut game in the league. They lost, 96-108, to Talk ‘N Text also last week.
In the second game, teams who are struggling to find consistencies go at it.
While the Road Warriors have alternated wins with losses in their first four games, the Elasto Painters are in a serious drought as they’re the league’s coldest team at the moment, having lost three straight after winning their first game.