THE Meralco Bolts shoot for a berth in the quarterfinals even as three teams in the bottom half gun for a win at the resumption of the 2017 Philippine Basketball Association Commissioner’s Cup following the league’s All-Star break.
Having a stellar campaign so far, the rejuvenated Bolts (6 wins, 1 loss) can earn the first of eight tickets to the quarters as they shoot for their third straight win when they play dangerous Phoenix Petroleum Fuel Masters (3-4) 7 p.m. at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
This is an equally important game for both teams as the race for the top eight intensifies.
In the appetizer, two lower-tier teams Blackwater Elite (1-6) and NLEX Road Warriors (0-7) fight each other for an elusive win.
With import Alex Stepheson jelling well with teammates, Meralco has found the consistency it was looking for.
As a result, it is now on the brink of being the first team through to the next round.
Still, Meralco coach Norman Black is hoping that his players retain their edge despite the long layoff.
“I hope we haven’t lost our focus after that long break. We’re looking to come out sharp,” said Black.
For the inconsistent Fuel Masters, a victory is essential for them to keep in step with the teams in the middle.
A victory over the Bolts will certainly help their cause.
While still winless NLEX is already out of the conversation for a berth in the playoffs. Blackwater still has an outside shot of making the top eight.
However, it needs to sweep the remainder of its games and hope that it can create a tie to force a playoff.