ALEX COMPTON got another chance to win his first title in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA).
The Alaska head coach is banking on the experience and lessons he earned when his Aces lost to San Miguel Beer in the best-of-seven championship series of the Philippine Cup that went the full route.
“I sure hope so. We will have to see about that, though,” said Compton, when asked if his first finals made him better, wiser and more equipped in the coming Governors’ Cup finals.
Alaska reached the best-of-seven title showdown of the season-ending conference after sweeping defending champion Star in their best-of-five semifinal series.
It will be the Aces’ 28th finals appearance—second best in league history behind San Miguel Beer’s 34.
And with team owner Wilfred Uytengsu giving a pep talk after their 82-77 conquest in Game Three on Sunday night, the Aces are dead set to nailing their 15th PBA crown.
“We have the tools. Our guys, they will definitely [battle],” said Compton, who is awaiting the winner of the San Miguel-Rain or Shine semifinal series.
“Those teams [Beermen and Elasto Painters] are great teams. But I’m happy we’re here,” he said.
Romeo Travis made a strong case to win this conference’s Best Import award with another solid performance (19 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists) in their series-clinching game and, like in their first two semifinal games, Compton drew contributions from almost everyone in his roster.
Jayvee Casio and Chris Banchero were also solid at the backcourt for the Aces, Cyrus Baguio and Dondon Hontivero were consistent at the shooting guard spots and Vic Manuel, rookie Rome de la Rosa and Calvin Abueva were a force on defense.
Even seldom-used Ping Exciminiano and Noy Baclao had their moments in the series. Both played big in their 95-74 demolition of the Hotshots in Game Two.
Their victory ended the reign of Star, which, after a grand slam season last year, went without a title this year.
“For me, it’s about the competition in every game. It’s about winning a basketball game. We didn’t talk about ending their reign. Our mind-set was never to worry about their status,” Compton said. “They did something incredibly special.”
For being the first team to the finals, the Aces will have the luxury to rest their tired legs. Game One of the championship series could be on Friday—if the other semifinal series ends in four games. If the San Miguel-Rain or Shine series goes the distance, the finals will start on Sunday.
Image credits: PBA Image