Scottie, Kings hopeful of great things

MANILA, Philippines — Bridesmaids twice in Season 49, Barangay Ginebra is hell-bent on finally getting the ring for itself in the PBA Philippine Cup.

The Gin Kings vied for the championship in both the Governors’ Cup and Commissioner’s Cup but were denied each time by TNT, making the season-ending import-less conference their last chance to end this season-long heartache.

“Looking forward kami sa All-Pilipino (conference),” said Ginebra star Scottie Thompson, whose squad will launch its drive on Wednesday against Terrafirma.

“We know we have to work more this conference, to gel more and to adjust without Justin Brownlee because it’s All-Filipino.  And we’re ready (for the challenge),” he added.

Thompson anticipates a rough road ahead especially with powerhouse San Miguel Beer determined to regain lost glory and tormentor TNT intent on completing a rare grand slam.

“Maraming malalakas especially San Miguel and of course, TNT ulit. So I think it’s a 50-50 chance for us. Actually, lahat naman ng teams 50-50 sa All-Filipino,” he said.

Thompson carries an extra responsibility as a baller after being named to the PBA’s expanded 50 Greatest Players list while still on active duty.  The only other active player among the 10 new inductees is eight-time MVP June Mar Fajardo.

“Truly honored and blessed sa ganitong opportunity, na early sa career ko napasama ako dito,” said the Season 46 MVP.

“Nadagdagan ang motivation ko na mas pag-igihan pa at paghirapan lalo kasi marami pang posibleng mangyari sa career ko at maging ready and mabigyan ang Ginebra fans lagi ng magandang performance and magandang laban,” he added.