New-look Barangay Ginebra will parade newcomers Stephen Holt and Isaac Go. Can Rain or Shine spoil their debut?

Catch the game this Thursday, August 24th, at 7:30 PM.

Barangay Ginebra San Miguel (0-0)

Starting five:

• Scottie Thompson
• Maverick Ahanmisi
• Stephen Holt
• Justin Brownlee
• Japeth Aguilar

The Barangay are finally making their Governor’s Cup debut, eager to redeem themselves from their disappointing semifinals exit at the Philippine Cup. It’s an exciting time as they reloaded on talent over the offseason with the acquisitions of 2023-24 Rookie of the Year Stephen Holt and stretch big man Isaac Go. 

Holt had a phenomenal first year courtesy of 21.0 points, 8.3 rebounds, 6.6 assists, and 2.2 steals per game on 52% shooting, while Go compiled 12.2 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks. Both should be able to do good jobs replacing the firepower of Christian Standhardinger and Stanley Pringle.

The two will be alongside a well-rounded Ginebra roster, which are sure to make the squad even better. Maverick Ahanmisi, Jamie Malonzo (coming off an injury, status is up in the air), Japeth Aguilar, and import Justin Brownlee will remain as the main guys, and it’ll be interesting to see who will step up to take Pringle’s guard spot.

Rain or Shine Elasto Painters (1-0)

Starting five:

• Aaron Fuller
• Caelan Tiongson
• Felix Lemetti
• Beau Belga
• Santi Santillan

Rain or Shine had a good Governor’s Cup opener as they easily eased past Blackwater Bossing this past Tuesday, 110-97. They showcased good defense, holding Bossing to just 39.2% shooting and balanced scoring by having five guys score in double figures.

Import Aaron Fuller should continue leading the charge. He efficiently shot 9-of-11 from the floor for 24 points, while also grabbing 19 rebounds. He’ll be in an interesting matchup against Ginebra’s strong front. 

Veterans Beau Belga, Santi Santillan, and Gian Mamuyac will be there to provide reliable support for Fuller, but rookies Caelan Tiongson and Felix Lemetti should be equally intriguing too. Each had solid debuts, chipping in 15 and 11 points, respectively. Tiongson, in particular, looks to be a force, and has the tools to rapidly grow in the PBA.

ROS has the ability to turn it up on offense and/or defense, so the group is always a fun watch whenever they are on.

PICKS:

Spread: Ginebra (-4)

Over/Under: Over (209.5)