Barangay Ginebra San Miguel was just one win away from clinching the PBA Commissioner’s Cup championship on Sunday, but the efforts of Justin Brownlee and the entire squad weren’t enough to close the series as TNT Tropang 5G forced a Game 7. Even so, Japeth Aguilar, one of Ginebra’s veterans, is staying positive that the barangay will still get the job done. He also stressed the need for better preparations for the winner-take-all on Wednesday.
“Man, we have to stay positive,” Aguilar told Rebanse. “Talagang mag prepare kami sa Game 7, tignan namin kung saan kami pwedeng mag ano how to get better….”
Ginebra, Aguilar Must Find Antidote to Chris McCullough
In Game 6, TNT import Chris McCullough erupted for 53 points, 22 rebounds, 2 assists, a steal, and a block, leaving Ginebra without answers. He also took over down the stretch, much like Justin Brownlee did in Game 5. That could be one point of emphasis for Ginebra, whose bigs—Aguilar himself, Troy Rosario, Isaac Go, and Norbert Torres—have struggled to keep up with the prolific CMac.
In Game 5, Tim Cone’s decision to put Rosario on McCullough initially worked, only for TNT to adjust by putting CMac in better positions to attack, including in catch-and-shoot opportunities off high screen and rolls. And, by and large, whether defended by Brownlee, Aguilar, or Rosario, McCullough has consistently found ways to adapt—attacking both the post and perimeter. With two days of rest before Game 7, Ginebra’s defensive response will be a major point of emphasis as they look to finally contain TNT’s explosive import and secure the championship.
Aguilar Puts Faith in Tim Cone
Usually a starter, Aguilar has come off the Ginebra bench in Games 5 and 6. But rather than question the move, the longtime Gilas Pilipinas big man is embracing it as he trusts his coach’s plans.
“Ok lang naman basta kung ano ‘yung game plan ni coach, sinusundan namin,” Aguilar said.
Aguilar managed 8 points in 12 minutes in Game 6 and 12 markers in Game 5. In Game 7, he will likely be called to provide his veteran leadership and contribute on both ends.
