NorthPort, NLEX, Meralco shoot for 2nd wins

Games Today

(Smart Araneta Coliseum)

4:30 p.m. — NLEX vs Meralco

7 p.m. — Magnolia vs NorthPort TNT KaTropa (1-0); Brgy. Ginebra (1-0); San Miguel (1-0); NLEX (1-0); Meralco (1-0); NorthPort (1-0); Rain or Shine (1-1); Columbian (1-1); Magnolia (0-1); Blackwater (0-1); Alaska (0-2); Phoenix Pulse (0-2)

NorthPort, NLEX, and Meralco, which started their campaigns on a high note over the weekend, seek their second straight win and the early lead in the PBA Governors’ Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

NLEX and Meralco square off in the opener at 4:30 p.m. while NorthPort braces for a bounce-back showing from defending champion Magnolia in the second game at 7 p.m.

Kiefer Ravena hopes to build on his strong showing the last time as NLEX aims to score another win despite the absence of Poy Erram, who will be sidelined for two weeks with an injured left elbow.

Ravena had 20 points, nine rebounds, seven assists and three steals in his first PBA game since completing an 18-month FIBA suspension when the Road Warriors downed the Phoenix Pulse Fuel Masters, 123-116.

Meralco spoiled Magnolia’s bid to start its title-retention drive after scoring the last 12 points in a 98-92 win also held last Saturday.

NorthPort, meanwhile, started off the season-ending conference last Sept. 20 with a 99-94 win over Rain or Shine.

Batang Pier coach Pido Jarencio will bank on rookie Robert Bolick, who had 20 points, four rebounds and five assists against ROS.