MANILA, Philippines – In order to secure the first spot in the quarterfinal playoffs, MAGNOLIA started the 48th Season Commissioner’s Cup elimination round on a fiery note, winning seven games in a row.

Despite finally losing to Rain or Shine, the Hotshots were still on course to earn one of the four spots in the quarterfinals that are reserved for teams that finish first and second, which will be a significant advantage for them going forward in their playoff run.

In the meantime, Phoenix and Meralco earned their spots in the quarterfinals as well as are also eligible for spots in the twice-to-beat competition; the final spot is anticipated to be fiercely contested in the upcoming playdates.

MAGNOLIA

A victory over Terrafirma on Wednesday would secure the Magnolia Hotshots’ playoff position, given their impressive 7 to 1 win-loss record. Magnolia maintains an advantageous standing over teams like NorthPort, San Miguel, and Barangay Ginebra, even if they were to lose their final two games. The eighth win often marks the threshold for securing a coveted twice-to-beat berth, enhancing Magnolia’s chances of a favorable playoff position in the PBA 48th Season Commissioner’s Cup. The Hotshots aim to solidify their standing and strategic advantage as they approach the crucial phase of the tournament.

MERALCO INCLUDING PHOENIX

The Fuel Masters as well as the Bolts have identical 6 to 1 win-loss records and are in second place. Winning two of their final four games or reaching eight victories is the safest route into the twice-to-beat seats. However, both teams have demanding schedules.

San Miguel, Meralco, and TNT are the teams the Fuel Masters will face on Wednesday in an attempt to take away their incentive. On Wednesday, they still have NorthPort.

After games against Barangay Ginebra on Friday, the Bolts’ remaining schedule is as difficult: they have games in opposition to Magnolia, Phoenix, and Terrafirma to round off the elimination rounds.

NORTHPORT AND SAN MIGUEL

NorthPort and San Miguel, both with 5 to 3 win-loss records, are poised to vie for the fourth and final twice-to-beat incentive as the elimination round of the PBA 48th Season Commissioner’s Cup nears its conclusion. The outcome of this battle for the coveted incentive hinges on the remaining games and results. Notably, the Batang Pier holds an advantage over the Beermen in potential tiebreaker scenarios, having secured a victory with a 115 to 101 score in their earlier elimination-round clash on December 8. As the elimination round unfolds, the playoff picture remains fluid, with unpredictable scenarios adding excitement to the league.

GINEBRA BARANGAY

Despite their current 4 to 3 win-loss record and a sixth-place standing, the Barangay Ginebra Gin Kings have the potential to disrupt the standings and secure a twice-to-beat position. To accomplish this, they need to secure victories in most of their remaining games. A crucial match against NorthPort in the elimination round on January 7 looms large, as the outcome will significantly impact their chances of securing the advantageous twice-to-beat position in the PBA 48th Season Commissioner’s Cup. The Gin Kings face a critical stretch where each victory becomes instrumental in shaping their playoff trajectory.

TNT

Currently, in seventh place, the TNT Tropang Giga retains the opportunity to finish with a 7 to 4 record, potentially earning them a coveted spot in the doubleheader. To achieve this, they must secure victories in their final three games. The upcoming matchups against Rain or Shine and Phoenix carry heightened significance as both teams are actively contending for a quarterfinal spot. Additionally, the Christmas competition against Barangay Ginebra adds another layer of competition and challenge for TNT. The Tropang Giga faces a crucial stretch where each game’s outcome will significantly impact their standing and playoff aspirations in the PBA 48th Season Commissioner’s Cup.