Coca-Cola coach Binky Favis describes their unexpected entry into the quarterfinals as a gift.

That is why he is prodding his troops to preserve their gains by continuously working hard together and believe in their ability to make things happen.

What the Tigers have achieved was simply amazing. It was almost like a fairy tale. Depressed and counted out after an eight-game losing streak, Lady Luck suddenly showed up and smiled at them and the next thing the Tigers knew they’re in the quarterfinals of the 2007-08 Smart-Philippine Basketball Association Philippine Cup in the company of the Alaska Aces, Red Bull Barakos and the Magnolia Beverage Masters.

Favis said his team was indeed blessed to be in the quarterfinals.

“All we asked for was a chance. And to be able to make it all the way here is a gift … a blessing,” said the unassuming Coca-Cola coach.

The sixth-seeded Tigers will be paired against the No. 3 Aces in the best-of-three series with Game One scheduled at 5:40 this afternoon at the Cuneta Astrodome. No. 4 Red Bull and No. 5 Magnolia face off in the other series set at 7:20 p.m.

Inspired efforts from Asi Taulava and Mark Telan and a consistent contribution from rookie sensation Ronjay Buenafe and its energized bench made thing happen for the Tigers. And Favis knows the same kind of effort will spell the difference for them in the quarters.

The Aces swept their two-game series with the Tigers in the eliminations and Favis readily admits that Alaska will be a tough match-up.

“Alaska has been playing its best basketball the past couple of years. So we really have to play as a team and try to match their energy. Let’s see how far we can go,” Favis said.

The Barakos also hold a 2-0 lead over the Beverage Masters although jaded observers contend anything can happen in the series.

Red Bull faltered in the homestretch of the elimination round but coach Yeng Guiao said his troops managed to regain their confidence by winning their last two games.

“This is important for us because it enable us to gain our confidence heading to the quarters. We just have to sustain our efforts,” he said.

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A GROUP of young wushu artists and a scion of the sporting Puyat clan made up this year’s Tony Siddayao awardees to be feted during the San Miguel Corp. (SMC)-Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Awards Rites at the SM Mall of Asia on February 16.

Coca-Cola coach Binky Favis describes their unexpected entry into the quarterfinals as a gift.

NOT a lot of people know that 2008 Philippine Ladies Amateur Open champion Chihiro Ikeda injured her left wrist during practice a day before the tournament started.