THE Alaska Aces and the Phoenix Petroleum Fuel Masters aim to gain a share of early tournament lead when they shoot for a second straight win against separate foes in the 2017 Philippine Basketball Association Philippine Cup.
Following a very impressive showing in their opening game win, the Aces (1-0) are looking for a follow-up as they take on Blackwater Elite (0-1) this time around at 4:15 p.m. in the first game at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The Aces will be led by high-scoring import Cory Jefferson as well as do-everything forward Calvin Abueva.
In the main attraction, the Fuel Masters (1-0), who fought their way towards a hard-fought initial win, go head-to-head with the debuting Star Hotshots (0-0) at 7 p.m.
Alaska and Phoenix both look to tie early league leaders Rain or Shine Elasto Painters and Meralco Bolts, who are already at 2-0.
Showing its hunger, Alaska rolled to a dominant 107-79 devastation of GlobalPort Batang Pier last Saturday to open its campaign with a bang.
While the Aces are looking for a follow through, their opponent is looking for redemption.
The Elite dropped a tough double overtime 116-118 defeat at the hands of Phoenix also last Saturday in a thrilling double-overtime encounter.
The Fuel Masters, on the other hand, are looking to stay sharp and keep the ball rolling following that tough grind out win when they face the vastly improved Star side.
