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.
FULL VIDEO:
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.
News
Ginebra Bounces Back and Crushes Rain or Shine | Ginebra vs Rain or Shine
Ginebra Dominates Rain or Shine for a Convincing Victory In an exciting matchup between Barangay Ginebra and Rain or Shine, basketball fans were treated to an intense game of back-and-forth action. The game, held as part of the ongoing…
Kyt Jimenez 4-POINT SHOT for San Miguel vs Ginebra in 4Q | PBA Season 49 Governors’ Cup
Kyt Jimenez Dazzles with 4-Point Shot in San Miguel vs Ginebra Matchup | PBA Season 49 Governors’ Cup In an exhilarating game during the PBA Season 49 Governors’ Cup, Kyt Jimenez of San Miguel made headlines with an impressive…
Former Magnolia’s Jalalon Wants to Contribute | Blackwater’s George King is Serious | ROS Coach Yeng Ensures Readiness
Rain Warriors Secure Last Spot in Quarterfinals Amidst Competitive Field In the latest update from the basketball world, the Rain Warriors have clinched the final spot in the quarterfinals, making their way through a highly competitive bracket. Fans are…
Stephen Curry Admits He “Didn’t Like” Some Team USA Players After Details on LeBron James Drama Emerged
In his first Olympics, Stephen Curry left an indelible imprint. After a cold tournament, his burst in the two most vital games ensured Team USA retained its glory atop the basketball ladder. However, those aren’t the memories he holds with him. The…
Golden State Warriors OFFSEASON WORKOUT 2024 (Steph Curry, Kuminga, Anderson, Hield, Looney)
Golden State Warriors Offseason Workout 2024: A Focus on Core Strength and Team Bonding In preparation for the 2024 season, the Golden State Warriors have been rigorously working through an intense offseason training regimen. Key players such as Steph…
Stephen Curry NIGHT NIGHT Signature Celebration in China🔥
Stephen Curry’s “Night Night” Signature Celebration Lights Up China Beijing, China – Basketball superstar Stephen Curry brought his electrifying “Night Night” signature celebration to China, thrilling fans across the country with his unique style and infectious energy. The iconic…
End of content
No more pages to load