Blackwater looks to stay hot and regain sole possession of the top spot when it goes for a fourth straight win in the 2019 Philippine Basketball Association Commissioner’s Cup.
Still unscathed after three games, the Elite (3-0) face a fresh challenge from debuting Phoenix Pulse at 4:30 p.m. at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City today, even as Meralco (1-2) takes on another debuting team in Rain or Shine in the nightcap at 7 p.m.
Currently, Blackwater shares the top spot with NorthPort but it can end the week at the top should it keep its hot streak alive.
Reinforced by hulking import Alex Stepheson and highly-touted No. 2 pick Bobby Ray Parks, the Elite are making a splash early on with their fiery start.
Blackwater already victimized defending champion Barangay Ginebra, Meralco and most recently, Columbian Dyip just last Sunday, 118-110.
New Blackwater coach Aris Dimaunahan is thrilled of his team’s evident progress.
“These early wins are really nice to have,” said Dimaunahan, who is still yet to be defeated in his young coaching career. “We’re having a good start but we’re still far from our goals. We need to keep the hunger and focus.”
After making the semifinals for the first time in franchise history last Philippine Cup, the Fuel Masters are now looking for more progress as they start a new campaign against the Elite.
The Bolts have been in consistent in three games thus far.
They last dropped an 85-99 decision to the Gin Kings last Sunday after leading big in the first half.
Meralco will look to even its slate against an Elasto Painters side that is seeking for a good start after also making the semis of the first conference.