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TNT's Castro gears up for "do-or-die" PH Cup homestretch

For Jayson Castro, it's now or never for TNT. Dennis Acosta (file photo)
By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA--TNT, who has become a PBA powerhouse in recent years, is in a tough situation nine games into the Philippine Cup.

The KaTropa, who are usually inside the Top 6 at this juncture, are currently eighth in the standings at 4-5, putting them in danger of either going to the quarterfinals with a twice-to-beat disadvantage or even missing the playoffs at all if their current slide continues.

With that said, Jayson Castro believes their last two games are must-win situations.

"Yung last two games, talagang do-or-die games na sa amin yun. Di na kami pwedeng matalo," the veteran guard said.

Their penultimate assignment in the eliminations will happen right on Valentine's night as they take on the GlobalPort Batang Pier at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.

Like TNT, GlobalPort, currently at 3-4, is also chasing a quarterfinal spot and even has a chance to barge to the Top 6.

With two matches at hand, however, the Batang Pier can not just overtake the KaTropa in the standings with a win in their 7 p.m. clash but also get a shot at barging to the Top 6.

In line with it, GlobalPort acquired the services of shooter Jeric Teng from free agency for an offensive boost.

Another team chasing a Top 6 spot, Phoenix, battles Meralco in the first game at 4:30 p.m.

The Fuel Masters can boost their own bid at a better quarterfinal seeding against the struggling Bolts, who now need a miracle to sneak into the next round.

Follow him on Twitter: @IvanSaldajeno