We are finally in the playoffs of the 2023-2024 PBA Commissioner's Cup! The elimination round was explosive and full of interesting plot.
Now, we are down to the eight teams and four of them will have twice-to-beat edge in the Quarterfinals!
Here is our prediction in the first two series that will start this Wednesday!
#4 Phoenix (twice-to-beat edge) Versus #5 Meralco
X Factors:
1. Bench Players
2. Free-throws
3. Johnathan Williams
A lot of fans are happy to see an independent team end up with a twice-to-beat advantage in this tournament. Meralco though will not be an easy out for them. Both squads are not top-heavy teams. So, their benches will play a key role.
Phoenix is one of the most modern team in the league but they are shockingly the least efficient free-throw shooting team. Knowing the grind in the playoffs, Meralco can maximize that to their advantage.
Although, the most crucial factor will still be the performance of Williams. He is a monster and the most deserving of the Best Import award so far.
Prediction:
This is a hard decision to make because Phoenix do not have that much experience in the playoffs compared to the core of Meralco. But, they are playing so well that I think their bench will be there and Williams will do his job and carry them to the semifinals.
#1 Magnolia (twice-to-beat edge) Versus #8 TNT
1. RR Pogoy
2. Three-Point Shooting
3. Health
The return of RR is a game-changer for this salvaged playoff run of TNT. He contributed 11 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists in his first game back.
TNT is #1 in terms of three-pointers made per game and Magnolia is #12. Now, Magnolia has been this way during the era of Chito Victolero. TNT can maximize that with proper defensive strategy.
Health could be an underrated factor in this match. TNT is arguably the least healthy team in this tournament while Magnolia is the most healthy.
Prediction:
Magnolia was not as perfect in terms of performance in their last four elimination games. Nevertheless, they are fully healthy now. Pogoy is back for TNT but I am pretty sure he is not yet 100% physically. TNT will win the outside shooting battle but they also have a higher chance of having health issues in this series. I will side with Magnolia.
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