Depleted Kings play Giles-less Smart Gilas

MANILA, Philippines - Barangay Ginebra will be short-handed minus Mark Caguioa and Eric Menk while Smart Gilas will be without import CJ Giles as they clash today in the KFC PBA Philippine Cup at the Cuneta Astrodome.

The Kings have lost Caguioa and Menk to injuries while Giles can’t concentrate on playing with his son seriously ill back home in the US.

Caguioa, who has just returned into action after sitting out the whole 2008-09 campaign, has been advised by his doctors to take at least a week rest as he feels pain in his newly repaired knees. Menk will be out for at least two weeks due to a fractured toe.

“We’ll be undermanned but we’ll find ways to win,” said Ginebra coach Jong Uichico.

“Coach Rajko Toroman and the coaching staff have decided CJ will not play because he’s very bothered (by the news). His status will be day-to-day,” said SBP executive director Noli Eala.

Smart Gilas, playing as guest team in the first round of the Philippine Cup eliminations, also has doubtful starters in Chris Tiu and Rabeh Al-Hussaini.

Meanwhile, the PBA board of governors yesterday expressed concern on the non-appearance of at least three key Smart Gilas players in a game against Talk n Text Wednesday.

PBA commissioner Sonny Barrios said he intends to talk to Eala to relay the league’s concern.

“The board just want to know if there’s a problem, then we can explore other options on how to conduct their games,” said Barrios.

Ginebra seeks to preserve a clean slate, going for a third straight win while Smart Gilas hopes to get into the win-column after losing its first two games to Burger King and Talk n Text.

Alaska Milk also seeks a third win in a row in tangling with Coca-Cola in the 7:30 p.m. main game, succeeding the 5 p.m. tiff between Purefoods and Barako Bull.

The Tigers are likely to play minus Asi Taulava who suffered an ankle sprain in their last game.

The Kings and the Aces currently share the lead with the Talk n Text Tropang Texters and the Sta. Lucia Realtors at 2-0, followed by Purefoods and Barako Bull at 1-1 then San Miguel and Burger King at 1-2. Coke and Smart Gilas share the cellar with Rain or Shine with each one winless in three starts.

The Energy Boosters pulled the rug from under the Tigers, 81-73, while the Giants were beaten by the Kings, 87-95, Sunday.

“We have a new mix, composed mostly of unheralded players looking for recognition. They want to prove they belong in the league,” said Barako Bull coach Leo Isaac.