Championship Swag

TNT: Grace under pressure

Just the other day the Barako Bull Energy, their believers and even some underdog-rooting converts (such as this writer) were a step closer to making it into the PBA Commissioner's Cup Finals. Their story was to be told for weeks, years and even ages. The "little engine that could," the "David" to the mighty Talk 'n' Text Tropang Texters' "Goliath." They were only a game away.

Unfortunately, tonight happened.


Like an odds-on underdog boxer who found himself overpowering the champion favorite for several rounds and right at the cusp of a World title only to be sent crashing down to the canvass with a haymaker from out of nowhere-- that's how the Energy looked tonight. They were not only served, they were knocked-out.

Can the Energy still win Game 5?

Sure, that's the beauty of the game-- it favors no one as any given day someone could get hurt, sick, wax hot or be in rhythm.

But realistically, the way the Texters beat the Energy down and how their vets looked in the 4th with little to no fight?

They don't deserve to be anywhere near the trophy.

The minute Gabe Freeman was whistled for his third foul which ultimately ruined his mojo the rest of the night, it was like the Energy locals all decided to call it a night and hope that their old legs could muster enough for a Game 5 comeback. Willie Miller looked lethargic, Danny Seigle had all sorts of Kelly Williams-Jarred Dillinger problems and Mick Pennisi wasn't getting the same looks he did earlier in the series.

Don Allado best typifies the Energy's lack of effort by stepping aside in the 4th quarter for a rare, The Doctor jam which was done quite emphatically despite them leading by 20.

You see, in other games, namely against the 90s Ginebra or the Yeng Guiao-era Red Bull, anyone who tries that is going to be decked. Hard. It's the kind of play that ignites a celebrating team even further AND at the same time, instigates an all out melee on the court.

The Texters, in yet another quick transformation, entered the game mentally and physically prepared. They stepped on the gas, got hit early but regrouped and attacked relentlessly. The Energy tried to play rough, but the Texters just took it in stride and made their shots.

Kudos to Coach Chot Reyes for not stooping to the level of the Energy. His team did exactly what he preached to the media-- they'll win (and lose) by playing basketball the way they know how. Relentless, not physical, not cheap short worthy. Just plain, run and gun, non-stop basketball.

Look for the Texters to close this series out on Wednesday regardless if the Energy bring it or not. Man for man, the best and better team who always looks to win and plays with heart at all times will win.