MANILA—Defending champion Alaska Aces try to move a step closer towards clinching a playoff for the second outright semifinal berth when they face equally tough Magnolia Beverage today in the 2008 Smart-PBA Fiesta Conference elimination round at the Araneta Coliseum.
But the biggest stumbling block in Alaska’s quest for its 10th win is the possible absence of ace guard and 2007 MVP Willie Miller, who is suffering with the rare chicken pox.
However, despite the absence of the 5-foot-10 Miller, the Aces went on to win over Coca-Cola, 77-73, last Wednesday.
Coach Tim Cone said that the return of the Olongapo-born Miller will depend on the advice of his attending physician.
“It’s a 50-50 chance that he can play. If he gets the necessary medical clearance that will give him the go-signal to play, then we will let him play,” said Cone, whose Aces need to win their last two games including against Ginebra on July 6 to keep their hope of an outright semis bid alive.
Both the Aces and the Beverage Masters collide in the first game at 4:30 p.m., while Talk ‘N Text faces Barangay Ginebra in the second game at 6:50 p.m.
The Aces, bearing a 9-7 slate is just a win away from second-placer Red Bull, which has a 10-6 card and is two wins from solo leader Air 21’s 11-6 record.
Epic battle
Thus, the Express and the Barakos could deny other hopefuls, including Alaska, a chance for the two automatic semis slots if they win their respective last elimination round assignments and avoid a seventh setback.
“Everybody is bunched up in the standings, it’s getting to be an epic battle (for Top 2),” said Cone, who wants to avenge their 81-89 setback to the Beverage Masters in the first round last April 11.
Meanwhile, the PBA will give a fitting honor to Alaska Milk president and chief executive officer Wilfred Steven Uytengsu Jr. for being named the Philippines’ Ernst & Young 2007 Entrepreneur of the Year and for representing the Philippines in the Ernst and Young World Entrepreneur of the Year Awards in Monte Carlo, Monaco last May 31.
Uytengsu, a two-time chairman of the PBA, was also conferred the “Masters Entrepreneur” for exemplifying sound management practices in the areas of finance, shareholder value, corporate governance, marketing, human resources and sales as well as fostering strong relationship with his employees, customers and suppliers.
“Mr Uytengsu’s achievement did not only bring honor to the PBA but to the entire nation as well,” said PBA commissioner Ronald Barrios.
Barrios and PBA chairman Tony Chua will award the plaque of recognition to Uytengsu at halftime of the Alaska-Magnolia game. (FCC)
