Warriors still favored in Game 2

DESPITE LeBron James and Cleveland Cavaliers' surprising performance in Game 1 that was taken away by the defending champion Golden State Warriors via overtime, prominent Dabawenyo coaches and players are still convinced that the Warriors will take Game 2 today at the Oracle, Arena Oakland, California.

Former PBA player Pong Escobal is rooting for LeBron James and the Cavs to win Game 2 but the Warriors, according to him has all what it takes to go for a 2-0 slate.

"Nasa kanila lahat ng factors, too much firepower, teamwork, seasoned coach and so many to mention. Lamang jud sila," Escobal said, stressing that Cavs’ only hope of winning is on James' teammates' contribution.

Champion coach Isaias Gravador Jr., head coach of Holy Cross of Davao College Crusaders, also casted his vote to the Warriors which he believes to have an unstoppable firepower.

"James is strong but he absolutely can't make it on his own. Warriors play tougher defense and very unpredictable on their offense," Gravador said.

Ateneo de Davao University Blue Knights head coach Jess Evangelio, for his part, said the safest pick is to go for the Warriors.

"They have the home court advantage plus explosive players like Steph Curry, Kevin Durant and Klay Thompson. Ma-short yung Cavs kasi meron din si (Draymond) Green as defensive anchor nila for Lebron," Evangelio said who predicts "Warriors in 6".

Davao Occidental Tigers’ Louie Medalla said both teams have what it takes but the Warriors will win if referring to Game 2 because of the home court advantage.

But those opinions don’t apply to Pocholo Elegino, Ateneo de Davao University college basketball coach, who believes that Lebron will get sufficient support from his teammates this time around.

"If he gets the support he badly needs from his teammates and bench, mudaug sila. Basketball is a game of adjustments. They're smart enough to figure things out to the smallest detail and take advantage with the mismatches and opportunities," he said.