Tim Cone knows very well that the outcome of Sunday's much-awaited match between Barangay Ginebra and Magnolia could determine the two squads' playoff fate in the PBA Commissioner's Cup.
The Kings are mired at the bottom of the standings with a 2-5 record, while the Pambansang Manok (4-4) are trying to make one last push in their bid to secure a spot in the top six in time for the playoffs.
The American coach expects the duel, dubbed Manila Clasico and set to tip at 6:45 p.m., to go down to the wire once more, similar to these teams' numerous battles in the past.
"It's the Manila Classico and both teams need a win big time, so it will be exciting," Cone said.
Cone believes Magnolia's confidence is at a high, considering the Chito Victolero-mentored squad is fresh from its 111-89 thumping of powerhouse TNT last Wednesday.
"They're coming off a huge must-win against TNT and are confident. For us, this game could decide our playoff life. We need to be ready," he added.
Ginebra snapped a three-game losing skid with a 93-85 win over NLEX last week in Legazpi City.
On Sunday, as usual, the Kings will rely on the leadership of import Justin Brownlee, who was scintillating against NLEX with 23 points, 22 rebounds and 7 assists.
But more importantly, Ginebra will also have the big Kings supporters behind them as they try to turn things around in their last four elimination-round games this conference.
Meantime, Victolero took note of import Justin Jackson's energy during his team's win over TNT, with the American posting 18 points, 19 rebounds and 7 assists.
"The locals have ably stepped up to cover the weaknesses of Justin, though it's evident that [Jackson's] strength has really been his energy because he gives his all when he's on the floor," Victolero said in Filipino. "The locals can see how hard Justin practices."