Ginebra eyes 2-0 lead, TNT seeks equalizer

CEBU, Philippines —  The Barangay Ginebra Kings gun for a solid 2-0 lead but they must brace for a daring fightback from the TNT Tropang Giga as they clash in Game 2 of the PBA Philippine Cup best-of-seven finals today at the AUF Sports Arena in Angeles City, Pampanga.

Game time is set at 6 pm.

Ginebra of coach Tim Cone drew first blood but needed an extra five-minute period before holding off the equally-tough Tropang Giga in overtime, 100-94, in last Sunday's series opener.

TNT actually had an opportunity to win in regulation but veteran guard Jayson Castro missed his running shot in the closing seconds.

As Tropang Giga seek for the equalizer, they have a tougher task to bear as top gunner Ray Parks Jr. is doubtful for Game 2 with a strained left calf muscle.

Parks sustained the injury in Game 1 where he managed to score 20 points, four rebounds and four assists in a losing effort.

Without Parks, the likes of Castro, RR Pogoy, Poy Erram, Troy Rosario, Jay Washington, and Simon Enciso among others must step up big time to prevent TNT from plunging into a 0-2 hole.

“We better be on our toes in Game 2. Otherwise, it’s deja vu. We should learn from Game 1,” said Tropang Giga coach Bong Ravena.

The Kings, on the other hand, will again count on Japeth Aguilar, Stanley Pringle, Scottie Thompson, LA Tenorio, and rookie Arvin Tolentino as they try to reaffirm their mastery over the Tropang Giga.