TWO rematches of last conference’s quarterfinals match-ups take place as four more teams make their debut in the 2017-18 Philippine Basketball Association Philippine Cup.
The scene shifts to Pasay City as upgraded squads Meralco and Blackwater test each other’s mettle in the initial offering at 4:15 p.m. at the Cuneta Astrodome.
Right after, TNT KaTropa faces Rain or Shine in a grueling tiff at 7 p.m. in the nightcap.
Both match-ups are grudge matches from last Governors’ Cup quarterfinals wherein the Bolts and the Tropang Texters came out on top against their respective opponents.
After finishing as runner-ups in the third conference two seasons in a row, the Bolts have high hopes of finally getting over the hump.
They’ve added veteran gunners Mac Baracael and Nino Canaleta who can add more firepower to the core of Baser Amer, Chris Newsome, Jared Dillinger, Cliff Hodge, Ranidel De Ocampo and Reynel Hugnatan.
The Elite added ceiling as well as it is bound to unleash No. 3 overall pick Raymar Jose against Meralco. Jose is expected to provide Mac Belo, Allein Maliksi and Poy Erram some help upfront.
The Tropang Texters and the Elasto Painters, both veteran teams, will more or less be bannered by their usual suspects when they tango with some additions on the side.
TNT added spitfire Mac Tallo in its fray to provide support to star Jayson Castro while Rain or Shine will flaunt promising swingman Rey Nambatac to counter.