AS one of the league’s hottest teams, Alaska hopes to stay hot and shoots for a fifth straight victory as it resumes its ascent in the 2018 Philippine Basketball Association Philippine Cup.
For the Aces (4-2), staying on track is their goal when they take on unpredictable Phoenix (3-3) at 7 p.m. at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
In the appetizer, TNT KaTropa (3-3) still seeks consistency as it gears up to face cellar-dweller Kia (1-5) at 4:30 p.m.
Along with co-league leader Magnolia, Alaska is the league’s hottest team, having racked up four wins in a row after a 0-2 start to its campaign to climb to second place.
Aces coach Alex Compton credited his teams’ rise to improved chemistry and defense.
“I think we’re able to develop our defensive identity as we went along. Once our chemistry got better, our overall game got better,” said Compton of his squad’s sudden rise.
Alaska’s last victim was Blackwater when it took an 88-84 grinder last Saturday as the core of Calvin Abueva, Vic Manuel, Jvee Casio and rookie sensation Jeron Teng continued to lead the way.
Those chargers from the Aces will face a fresh challenge from the Fuel Masters’ capable core of Rj Jazul, Matthew Wright, rookie Jason Perkins and recent PBA Player of the Week, Willie Wilson.
The Fuel Masters are likewise coming off an impressive showing, listing their biggest victory after tripping Barangay Ginebra, 87-82, last Friday.
The Tropang Texters are yet to find any sort of rhythm as they have alternated wins and losses thus far.
They hope to gain steam once more as they are favored against the Picanto, winner of only one game in its six outings thus far.
