Live or die in title duel’s sudden death

MANILA, Philippines - Game Three. Sudden death. Do-or-die. Rubber match.

This is the one that matters, the no-tomorrow game, the ultimate test of character, the one that will feature the heroics of key figures that will serve as highlights in the contest.

Few are given the chance to compete in a Game Three, stew in the smoldering pressure of white-knuckle action of a showdown that would leave one team with all the marbles.

UST and FEU will clash in one this afternoon for the coveted UAAP men’s basketball crown before a huge crowd at the MOA.

It’s not only a piece of glassware, nor a symbol of excellence on the varsity level. But winning it would re-affirm supporters’ faith and beliefs on the team and the school’s ideals and norms.

And the mainstays of the Growling Tigers and the Tams must be aware of the burden of responsibility they carry not only for the schools and the league but for this passion the nation holds dear.

An even greater take awaits the seniors – Kevin Ferrer, Ed Daquioag and Karim Abdul of the Growling Tigers and Mac Belo, Mike Tolomia and Prince Orizu of the Tamaraws – seeing action in this Game Three. For 40 minutes, they will virtually replay all the highs and lows they went through the entire season as they engage in a final encounter that will either make or break them or provide defining moments in their young careers.

They must dish out their best, live or die at every possession, every offensive thrust or defensive stop.

Nobody will believe an off-day on this particular day. No coaches shall implore a go-to-guy to make a big comeback from shooting slump a game earlier.

They should not hold back part of their game, succumb to outside pressures, but should hang it all out, keep the cylinders firing all night.

For this is Game Three. One contest where one either soars or crashes out in sudden death.

It’s their moment of truth.