Magnolia mentor Chito Victolero. PBA Images
MANILA, Philippines – Magnolia mentor Chito Victolero is pleased to see his gunners put in the work as they continue their quest for a quarterfinal spot in the PBA Commissioner's Cup.
On the brink of elimination, the Hotshots managed to stay alive in the import-laden tourney, their last assignment being the Meralco Bolts on Friday.
The Victolero-coached squad pounced on an all-Pinoy, Akil Mitchell-less Bolts, 129-92, at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City, securing a knockout clash for the eighth spot.
READ: PBA: Magnolia secures playoff for eighth spot by demolishing Meralco
As Rain or Shine defeated TNT in the second game, it'll be NLEX which would hinder their way to the playoffs.
"[I'm] very proud, thankful. Na-appreciate ko lahat 'yung efforts ng players ko. Talagang tinatrabaho naman nila sa practice. We're practicing like in game situations. Talagang deserve nila na nasa sitwasyon na 'to," Victolero said.
READ: PBA: Magnolia stuns Eastern in dominant fashion to keep q’finals hopes alive
It has been do-or-die for the Magnolia side for three games now, but Victolero's not disheartened — because they've been there. A lot.
"We've been to pressure-packed games for the last three games. But because of our discipline and execution for the whole game, I think we have a good chance," he said.
Compared to the Road Warriors, they only have one day to rest and recover. The Magnolia-NLEX playoff is on Sunday at the Ynares Center in Antipolo. Tip-off is at 7:30 p.m.
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