NORTHPORT faces another formidable challenge as it faces a winless but determined Converge side in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup at the PhilSports Arena.

Game time is 4 p.m. with the Batang Pier looking to improve their 3-2 win-loss record and move up in the overall standings when they play the FiberXers.

But NorthPort coach Bonnie Tan cautioned his players when they take the floor against the FiberXers, who are deadset to chalk up their first win after five consecutive losses.

“Siyempre mahirap din kalaban yun team gaya ng Converge, which lost all their five games. Pero if you look at their losses, lahat halos close,” said Tan.

“Kaya sabi ko sa mga players, wag sana sa amin nila makuha yung unang panalo nila.”

Tan also claimed he would rather not think about the Batang Pier’s upcoming schedule which includes games against San Miguel Beer on Friday and another against Meralco on Sunday.

“First time na mangyayari ito sa akin, ewan lang sa ibang players namin. Pero back-to-back-to-back? Never para sa akin,” added Tan.

“Sabi ko nga, out of the three games, ito pinaka-beatable, based sa rankings. Sana huwag palampasin. Then sana maka- tsamba pa sa remaining games,” claimed Tan.

Tan finds some optimism in the fact that his team is also coming off a 128-123 overtime victory against powerhouse TNT last Friday.

In response, he granted his players two days off, particularly focusing on those he’ll rely on to counter the pressure defense that the FiberXers are known for.

“Saka makatulong itong two-day break na ibinigay ko sa mga players, para hindi sila stressed, hindi sila pagod,” said Tan.

In the 8 p.m. second game, Magnolia Chicken Timplados guns for their sixth straight win and the solo lead against Blackwater.

Games Wednesday:

(PhilSports Arena)
4 p.m. — Converge vs. NorthPort
8 p.m.– Blackwater vs. Magnolia