Playoffs or end of road for Express

MANILA, Philippines - Air21 makes its final push to salvage the last playoff slot as it goes up against Alaska Milk at the close of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup single-round-robin elimination phase at the Araneta Coliseum today.

B-MEG Derby Ace will watch the game closely, hoping for an Alaska win that will hand the Llamados instead the last berth in the post-elims play.

Who will complete the playoff cast will be decided in the Air21-Alaska tiff at 7:30 p.m. succeeding the non-bearing match between Rain or Shine and San Miguel Beer.

Even in case of ties, the Elasto Painters are assured of a playoff seat due to a superior quotient.

That puts Air21 in a must-win situation due to an inferior quotient.

Although assured of a spot in the next round, the Aces are expected to come out strong as they brace up for the playoff wars beginning Friday at the Astrodome.

“It’s important for us to sharpen our game and ready ourselves for the playoffs. The only way we can do that is to go out and play at our highest level,” said Alaska coach Tim Cone.

The Express will really have a tough time with Alaska import LD Williams determined to make up for his one-game suspension.

Air21 coach Bong Ramos, however, said they love the challenge and they like their chances.

“We’re in a challenging situation. Five teams are already in, three are out, and one is hoping for us to lose. There’s a big pressure but we like the challenge. I consider it a privilege that we’re put in this kind of situation,” said Ramos.

“The chemistry of the team with our new players is already there. Though a little late, we will try our best to make it to the next round,” Ramos added.