Ginebra Secures Playoff Spot, but Eyes a Tough Quarterfinal Challenge

Barangay Ginebra has officially clinched a spot in the PBA Playoffs after a decisive victory over the Phoenix Fuel Masters. However, the team is far from complacent as they approach the end of the elimination round. With their quarterfinal slot secured, Coach Tim Cone has made it clear that Ginebra is focused on finishing the regular season as strongly as possible, aiming to maintain or improve their standing in the top three.

Coach Cone emphasized that even though Ginebra has no control over who they will face in the quarterfinals, the goal is to avoid a matchup against TNT Tropang Giga, the top team in the overall standings. TNT has been dominant throughout the conference, and Coach Cone admitted that TNT is the one team they’d prefer to steer clear of. To achieve this, Ginebra must win their final game against the NLEX Road Warriors, despite it being a “non-bearing” match for their standings.

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As of now, Ginebra sits comfortably in the third spot, and if they hold onto this position, they are likely to face the Meralco Bolts in the quarterfinals. This potential matchup would renew the longstanding rivalry between Ginebra’s Justin Brownlee and Meralco’s Allen Durham, who has returned to the PBA after several years. Should Ginebra move up to the second spot, other possible quarterfinal opponents include the Converge FiberXers or a potential classic Manila Clasico showdown against Magnolia.

Jamie Malonzo’s Injury Status: A Possible Playoff Return?

In addition to their playoff preparations, Ginebra fans are eager to know the status of high-flying forward Jamie Malonzo, who has been sidelined for months due to injury. Malonzo recently returned to the Philippines after undergoing surgery and rehabilitation in the United States. According to Coach Cone, Malonzo is now able to walk and run, but he is still not in game shape after his long recovery period.

Malonzo’s return is critical for Ginebra, especially in light of the team’s thinning front court due to the injury of Isac Go. Ginebra is counting on Malonzo to help provide much-needed depth and relieve star big man Japeth Aguilar, who has been carrying the load. However, Ginebra’s management is being cautious about rushing Malonzo back onto the court.

Cautious Optimism for Malonzo’s Return

While Malonzo has already begun attending team practices and feels ready to play, the coaching staff, particularly Coach Tim Cone, is waiting for the green light from his doctors. The team is weighing the risk of rushing him back too soon and potentially aggravating his injury. As of now, it remains uncertain whether Malonzo will be able to suit up for the upcoming playoffs. The coaching staff is even considering holding him out until the next conference to ensure a full recovery.

For Ginebra, having Malonzo back would be a huge boost to their playoff hopes, but at the same time, the team understands the importance of not jeopardizing his long-term health. As the PBA Playoffs approach, all eyes will be on Ginebra as they navigate these crucial decisions.