THE Golden State Warriors will force another deadlock in Game 6 of the NBA Finals series, according to some Dabawenyos.
Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Commissioner Charles Raymond A. Maxey said, "It ain't over until it’s over. The injury to KD (Kevin Durant) and how the Raptors fans rudely reacted to it had motivated the Warriors. There will be a Game 7."
SunStar Davao columnist Mark Paul Samante also believes the series will stretch to a winner-take-all Game 7.
"The Warriors will be playing inspired basketball after KD’s injury. Momentum is also on their side after the game 5 win," he said.
Former University of Mindanao prized player Peter June Simon of the Magnolia Hotshots and ex-Holy Child College of Davao standout Vince Petdeo Cuajao of the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Growling Tigers, both avid Warriors fans, also think the Warriors will stay alive after Game 6.
Cuajao said the Warriors need to give their all considering that they have been struck with injuries.
Lamb of God Sped Academy coach Isaias Gravador, Jr. said, "I hope the Warriors will be able to ride the momentum in their homecourt."
Holy Child College of Davao coach Nestor Sorrosa predicted that the battle-tested Warriors will survive another game for a sudden death Game 7.
However, Ateneo de Davao University Blue Knights coaches Cholo Elegino and Harry Hipolito think it will be Raptors in six.
Elegino said, "Human na na karong Friday. Kawhi kawhi na sa mga GSW. Lahi na pud para nindot. Hehehe (It will end on Friday. Say goodbye to GSW. It would be nice to have a new champion)."
Hipolito, for his part, said, "I think they will bounce back from their close loss in game 5. The Warriors lineup will again be depleted due to Kevin Durant's absence. I think the Raptors will take advantage of it and go on to win the title."
Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) 11 liaison officer Ronel Leuterio also said, "The Raptors seemed to be dominant without KD, I think its Toronto in game 6."
Davao Jones Academy coach Rael Diaz also observed that the Raptors were more consistent in their strategies but were complacent in the last game.
Durant's absence, he said, will leave a huge void in the Warriors team.
Holy Child College coach Nestor Sorrosa predicted the battle-tested Warriors will survive another game for a sudden death Game 7.