2017 Com. Cup Semis - SMB-STAR Game 4 Prediction: Depth is King?

(c) PBA Media Bureau

The best player in this series is no doubt a Hotshot. Ricardo Ratliffe put up monstrous numbers of 34.5 points, 27 rebounds, 5 assists and 53.7% FG in game 2 and game 3. Unfortunately, they loss both games.

San Miguel had been finding ways to overcome Ratliffe. Before we predict their game 4, let us check out first my recent prediction:

Ginebra-TNT Semis Game 1 (94-100)
1. Free-Throw Percentage (70%-42%)
2. Assists (20-24)
3. Japeth Aguilar (15 Pts, 5 Rebs, 5 T.O.s, 4/10 FG)
Verdict: Accurate


Deciding Factors
1. Turnovers
2. Marcio Lassiter
3. 1st Quarter

If you look at the team totals in their last two games, you will be shocked to see the Star having better numbers in majority of the categories. One category stands out though, rebounding. 

Star grabbed 115 rebounds compared to the 91 rebounds of San Miguel. To offset that, San Miguel better take care of the ball and try to force some turnovers.  

Marcio Lassiter will also be crucial. It is normal for a shooter to be hot after knocking down a game-winning shot. Hotshots should better find a way to stopping him because he can easily rain down threes that can end the run of Star.

Prediction
The statistics is just overwhelmingly on Star's favor. I just don't expect them to do it again for the third straight game. I expect the Beermen to get the lead early and control the ball and rely on a stingy defense, led by Chris Ross.