(c) PBA Media Bureau
The elimination round is finally over. We are finally on the playoffs of the 2019 PBA Philippine Cup!
Battling in a 3-game series will be Brgy. Ginebra San Miguel versus Magnolia Hotshots and TNT Ka Tropa versus San Miguel Beermen.
Two big-time match-ups that will further magnify the on-going rivalries of those four teams.
Who will get the 1st game of both series?
Let us predict.
TNT versus San Miguel
San Miguel was the heavy favorite for this conference because of their historical firepower and depth. So, it was a disappointment for them to only win seven games and end up in the 5th spot.
On the other hand, TNT was coming off a season of disappointment. So, for them to be on the 4th place this season could be an indicator that they are on the uptrend again.
Looking at their game in the elimination round, two things stand out.
First, TNT won every quarter. That is an indication that TNT was really the better team all throughout that game. It shows how powerful TNT is if they have the right strategy and their shots are clicking. That is an important thing to take note because it means TNT can play at a level wherein they can beat San Miguel.
Secondly, San Miguel did not play that bad. June Mar Fajardo and Christian Standhardinger combined for 46 points and 15 rebounds. While their shooters connected on 10 attempts!
So, TNT defeated SMB when they were playing well.
PREDICTION
TNT will shock San Miguel in game 1. Christian Standhardinger is rumored to be available for the first game of the series, which is a double-edged sword for me. Yes, it will increase the firepower of the team but the chemistry will be jiggled again.
TNT's loss to Northport in their last game is a good wake-up call for them. That will keep them on their toes. Their three-point shooting should be on-point in game 1 to fulfill my prediction.
Ginebra versus Magnolia
Coming from their surprising 2018 Governors' Cup conquest, Magnolia entered the tournament with a lot of optimism. On the other hand, Ginebra was the one who was dethroned at the last conference, so they are looking for redemption.
Looking at their game in the elimination round, two things were obvious.
Defense will be the weapon of Magnolia against Ginebra. It almost worked in their lone match-up, as they forced the Barangay into 26 turnovers, cashing-in 25 points. Inside, Ginebra also failed to bamboozle them.
On the other hand, Scottie Thompson is a nightmare match-up for them. With his athleticism, motor and size, Thompson always has an advantage over any Hotshots.
PREDICTION
It will not help Magnolia that they are not on the upper echelon of the league in terms of three-point shooting. Ginebra will surely disrespect a lot of their shooters, putting up a fortress that will be hard to penetrate for 48 minutes.
I will go with Ginebra for game 1 and I do not think it will be close.
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