Kings, Bolts clash for last time game for throne

MANILA, Philippines — Game Seven. Sudden death. Do-or-die. It comes in many forms but it’s actually the ultimate duel, the very game for the throne.

Bring in the biggest stage for the biggest clash before the biggest crowd – and you have one title face-off aching for a storied finish.

Put in a dash that fueled this smoldering rivalry – a tremendous rematch anchored on title retention or redemption as Barangay Ginebra and Meralco finally reach the final canto of this best-of-seven PBA Governors Cup showdown.

Indeed it’s a dispute for the throne with the Gin Kings hoping to stay on and the Bolts seeking a first-ever one. Gametime is 7 p.m.

The crowd is expected to be more than the record 53,642 that saw the Bolts grind out a 98-91 win in Game Six at the huge Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan Wednesday, setting this confrontation that took a personal twist between coaches Tim Cone and Norman Black.

This is one duel like no other with the Gin Kings working on a resolute defense built around its resident behemoths against a Meralco team throwing lightning bolts off treys to stay alive.

“Best two words in sports – Game Seven. And truly it is,” said Cone.

“There’s nothing more exciting or suspense-filled than playing in a Game Seven. The best thing that you can do is to enjoy the opportunity. That’s really the best approach,” Cone added.

 Black said it would be a battle between two teams coming out and trying to deliver their best punches.

Ginebra has nine titles tucked under its belt, with two won in deciding Game Sevens. Meralco, on the other hand, is setting out for the first time in a game where it has a shot at the crown.

Cone, however, doubts whether experience will be a factor in this game.

“I’m not sure experience will go into a Game Seven. It is an animal all by itself. It’s truly a 50-50 game, that’s why you don’t want to play a Game Seven. It’s anybody’s game,” he said.

“I don’t know if this group is special. I don’t think we have played a Game Seven together. Norman certainly has his share of Game Seven so I’m not sure experience will play in this one,” he added.

With Game Seven, you throw the previous stats sheets. Forget that Ginebra won Games One (102-87), Two (86-76) and Five (85-74) while Meralco took Games Three (94-81), Four (85-83) and Six (98-91).