The Gin Kings aim for a swift entry into the semifinals as they face off against the Road Warriors | PBA Governors' Cup 2023
BARANGAY Ginebra and NLEX are the top teams in the PBA, but they both fell short of their initial goals in the PBA Governors Cup elimination stage. Despite this setback, both clubs are motivated to maximize their potential.
The Gin Kings and the NLEX Road Warriors will face off in one of the most anticipated PBA Governors Cup quarterfinal matchups on Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. With the third seed, Ginebra has a shot at a fast passage to the semifinals, while NLEX has to win two in a row to defy the seeding and proceed to the semis.
While the Kings are the overwhelming favorites, coach Tim Cone has raised worries about his team’s weakened roster without important players Japeth Aguilar and LA Tenorio. These injuries might make it difficult for Ginebra to qualify for the semifinals.
On the other hand, the Road Warriors have had several hiccups in their quest to finish in the top four. NLEX must defeat the Kings on Sunday to force a deciding game. NLEX, on the other hand, will have to lift their game against the seasoned Ginebra squad headed by Wayne Selden Jr.
The game is a replay of their previous Governors Cup semifinal, which the Kings won before defeating old nemesis Meralco in the championship. Ginebra is anticipated to bring their A-game as the defending champion, but the Road Warriors will undoubtedly put up a fight.
To give NLEX a fighting chance, players like Kevin Alas, Don Trollano, and Brandon Rosser must improve their game against Ginebra’s battle-tested squad. Regardless matter the outcome, the game will be a thrilling clash between two of the PBA’s finest teams.