MANILA, Philippines – The Sports Center in Ortigas, Ginebra defeated Terrafirma 108-81 in their first tune-up game, making a strong preseason statement.  The Kings came into the game hoping to prove they were rejuvenated and prepared to compete after suffering a devastating semifinal loss in the Philippine Cup.  With youngster Sonny Estil and free-agent signing Norbert Torres serving as Tim Cone’s team’s main sparks, they fulfilled their promise by putting on a full-bodied effort on both sides of the court.

Ginebra selected Estil with the eleventh overall pick in the most recent draft, and he quickly established his value.  He contributed confidence, agility, and enthusiasm, demonstrating a readiness to attack the hoop and play defense.  His timely baskets, hustle plays, and transitional running provided Ginebra with a new dimension that complemented the team’s nucleus of seasoned players.  Cone commended Estil’s self-assurance and activity, pointing out that despite his PBA career’s infancy, the youngster appeared at ease in the system.

 Conversely, Torres demonstrated his worth as a dependable large guy who can compete in the paint.  Known for his toughness and physicality, he contributed crucial baskets and offered strong inside defense and rebounding.  Because of his presence, Ginebra was able to control the boards, dominate the interior, and minimize Terrafirma’s second-chance opportunities.  Torres made an instant impression on a squad that depends on having reliable big men to go with its elite guards.

 Throughout the game, the Kings executed their offensive strategy with precision.  Players consistently found open teammates either kick-outs to shooters or drop passes to big men cutting inside, and the ball movement was precise.  This selfless style of play created scoring opportunities for players all across the lineup and kept Terrafirma fumbling defensively.  When starters were switched out, Ginebra’s bench continued to provide the same level of performance.  As the club gets ready for the rigors of Season 50, that kind of depth might prove to be crucial.

 On defense, Terrafirma had a hard time against Ginebra.  They interrupted Dyip’s offensive rhythm with their quick rotations, disciplined closeouts, and ability to force turnovers.  Terrafirma was unable to create a steady beat because of Ginebra’s physicality in the paint and vigor on the edges.  The Kings easily won the game by the second half, so there was no longer any question about its fate.

 The outcome for Terrafirma was more about establishing a rapport with a lineup that had seen substantial changes than it was about the score.  Prince Rivero and Paul Garcia, two newcomers who had previously played for Ginebra, showed signs of promise when they suited up for the Dyip.  But against Ginebra’s tenacious defense, the team had trouble completing their setups, making mistakes, and committing turnovers.  The Dyip are going through a transition as former manager Ronald Tubid takes over as head coach.  This practice game brought to light the areas that require urgent correction if they want to be competitive when the season starts.

 There are things Terrafirma can learn from the endeavor, even with the defeat.  Rivero showed energy on both ends, and Garcia displayed composure at times.  Integrating these new components into a system that can optimize their abilities while minimizing errors will be their problem.  They will have more opportunities to resolve these problems throughout the preseason, but they must move swiftly to prevent another challenging campaign.

 But the message was plain to Ginebra.  With Scottie Thompson, Japeth Aguilar, and Christian Standhardinger already on the club, Estil and Torres provide much-needed depth and variety.  Torres’ physicality supports their inside rotation, while Estil’s athleticism provides them with another weapon in transition.  Both might make a difference in crucial parts of the season if they both play at this level.

 Ginebra’s preseason dominance solidifies its standing as one of the league’s most dependable teams from a betting perspective.  They are a formidable contender in spread markets because of their potential to overpower opponents with tight defense and balanced scoring, especially when facing rebuilding teams like Terrafirma.