SECOND-RUNNING Magnolia looks to be the first team to punch a ticket in the quarterfinals as it resumes play in the homestretch of the eliminations of the 2018 Philippine Basketball Association Philippine Cup.
The Hotshots (6-3) go for their seventh win, but capable GlobalPort (4-4) stands in their way as they lock horns at 7 p.m. today at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in a pivotal contest.
In the appetizer at 4:30 p.m., rejuvenated Blackwater (3-5) hopes to continue fighting its way in the mix as it battles lowly Kia (1-7).
Magnolia can clinch a berth in the quarters and be the first team there should it list a win.
However, momentum might not be on the side of the Hotshots as they have lost two in a row, the last one against Rain or Shine, 95-101, in Pangasinan last Saturday.
On the contrary, the Batang Pier notched a big win the last time out and hopes for another one, this time against Magnolia.
GlobalPort impressed last Wednesday, putting down TNT KaTropa, 99-84, as it notched a much-needed win.
While Magnolia is already on the brink of securing a place in the top eight, GlobalPort is still in need of wins to stabilize its chances.
After a long dry spell, the Blackwater Elite emphatically got back on track, catching a big fish after upsetting defending champion San Miguel Beer, 106-96, last week in a stunner.
Blackwater is looking to ride its momentum against Kia to help its chances of making the next phase.
On the other hand, the Picanto is in a win-or-go-home situation as a loss will officially kick it out of contention.
