Cobra, Pharex dispute D-League quarterfinal seat

MANILA, Philippines - Cobra and Pharex clash today at the start of the first round of the knockout playoffs in the PBA D-League Foundation Cup at The Arena in San Juan City.

Odds are just about even between the Ironmen and the Bidang Generix, who are facing off for the first time with the winner advancing to the quarterfinals against the PC Gilmore Wizards.

Gametime is at 4 p.m.

The other playoff game at 2 p.m. pits RnW Pacific Pipes and FCA.

“It will be our toughest match in the tournament. It’s either we win or we go home,” said Cobra coach Lawrence Chongson.

The Ironmen lost their final game in the classification round, 70-73, to Group B top-seed Cebuana Lhuillier two weeks ago, blowing their chance for an outright entry in the quarterfinals.

The Bidang Generix, on the other hand, are facing an even more challenging situation, having lost their last four games.

“I’m just hoping the work we’ve done over the last few weeks will show against a team that is dangerous with one of the game’s best amateur player in Paul Lee,” said Pharex coach Gian Carlo Tan.

“Cobra actually has plenty of capable scorers. Our defense has to be alert and be extra determined with coming up with stops,” Tan said.