A Battle for the Final Quarterfinal Spot
After narrowly escaping outright elimination, the Magnolia Hotshots and NLEX Road Warriors are set for a high-stakes showdown on Sunday at 7:30 p.m. at the Ynares Sports Center in Antipolo. The winner of this do-or-die match will secure the last quarterfinals berth and face the twice-to-beat top seed, NorthPort, in the next round.
Momentum and Determination on Both Sides
Both teams have displayed remarkable resilience, winning three consecutive elimination games to stay in contention. Now, they are determined to extend their streak and claim the final playoff spot alongside NorthPort, TNT, Converge, Meralco, Barangay Ginebra, Rain or Shine, and Eastern.
Acknowledging this second chance, NLEX coach Jong Uichico emphasized their mindset:
“Two weeks ago, we were on the brink of elimination, but now we have a chance to make the quarterfinals, so we’ll take this.”
Similarly, Magnolia coach Chito Victolero praised his team’s dedication:
“I’m proud and thankful for the players and their efforts. They worked hard in practice, treating it like game day, so they deserve this opportunity.”
Key Wins Leading to the Decisive Clash
The Hotshots earned their spot by capitalizing on Meralco’s key absence (Akil Mitchell, back spasm), securing a dominant 129-92 victory over the Bolts on Friday.
Meanwhile, the Road Warriors delivered a crucial 94-76 win over Eastern two nights earlier, which also sealed San Miguel Beer’s fate, knocking them out of the playoffs for the first time in a decade.
Eliminated Teams
Aside from San Miguel, Terrafirma and Blackwater also failed to advance past the elimination round.
What’s at Stake?
With everything on the line, both teams will fight for survival, knowing that only one will move forward. Will it be Magnolia or NLEX? Basketball fans are in for an electrifying showdown.
