Controlling the boards is just one aspect of the game that can bring the Magnolia Hotshots closer to the finals.
But according to Hotshots coach Chito Victolero, it will be a combination of many factors if they want to beat the undermanned Meralco Bolts in Game 3 of their PBA Philippine Cup best-of-seven semifinal series at 3 p.m. at the Don Honorio Ventura State University Gym in Bacolor, Pampanga.
“That’s (rebounding) one key factor. Pero hindi ‘yan ang magbibigay ng W. It’s all about team effort, the discipline, the execution, and the defense, including the rebounds,” said Victolero.
Later in the day at 6 p.m., the San Miguel Beermen clash with the TNT Tropang Giga in their tied series.
The Beermen turned back the Tropang Giga, 98-96, in Game 2, to equalize their best-of-seven affair at 1-all.
The Hotshots are now on a roll after their 92-78 triumph last Wednesday handed Magnolia a 2-0 lead.
During the game, Magnolia won a rebounding battle for a second straight game, 53-39.
In Game 1 which Magnolia also won, 88-79, the Hotshots were also in control of the boards, 47-39.
“This (rebounding) is extra possession. It’s an extra possession that we can get to score. So, if you have this, you have a big chance of winning the game,” added Victolero.
The Bolts will seek to get back on their feet without two key men, Raymond Almazan and Cliff Hodge.
Almazan won’t be around due to an ankle sprain, while Hodge will be suspended for a game after he was ejected from Game Two for a Flagrant Foul Penalty One.
Hodge was slapped with a technical foul earlier in the match.
The Bolts will also miss Aaron Black, who was absent in the playoffs due to an injury in his right hand.
During the game, Paul Lee banged in 17 of his 28 points in the first half and shot 9-for-18 from the field, while Ian Sangalang tallied 16 markers, 10 rebounds, and two assists to power the Hotshots.
On the other hand, Calvin Abueva knocked in seven of his 11 in the fourth quarter, grabbed 11 boards and added three assists, a steal, and a block for the Hotshots in the win.
Bong Quinto unloaded 14 points for the Bolts.
