Ginebra to make most of 'unexpected reprieve' in playoff for last QF spot, says Cone

Defending champion Barangay Ginebra San Miguel will try to leave no stone unturned when it battles for the last quarterfinal seat against the Phoenix Super LPG on Saturday in the 2021 PBA Philippine Cup.

Ginebra head coach Tim Cone said they will seize their last opportunity to enter the playoff round and avoid an early elimination after winning the 2020 All-Filipino title.

"We have been given an unexpected reprieve, so we want to do our best and take advantage of it," Cone told GMA News Online in a message Friday.

Cone, though, understands that it would be challenging to pull off a victory against the Fuel Masters, who were semifinal contenders last year against TNT, especially with a depleted lineup.

The multi-titled mentor said that their injury list will remain the same with Japeth Aguilar and Scottie Thompson still set to miss the game against Phoenix.

"The guys know the road is tough, and has been tough, but it starts with one step," Cone added.

"That step starts tomorrow with our game against Phoenix. As for our injuries, we're status quo."

Ginebra gained the rights for the playoff for No. 8 after the Meralco Bolts defeated the Alaska Aces on Thursday. A win by Alaska would have eliminated Ginebra from playoff contention.

—JMB, GMA News