As the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup Finals deepens, Chris Ross of the San Miguel Beermen is prepared for the expected increase in tension between the two teams. This was evident in Game 3 last Sunday, where the Beermen defeated TNT Tropang 5G, 95-89, and Ross was involved in a heated exchange during the game.
According to Ross, “We’re playing for a championship, so if we’re not getting in the other team’s face, then what are we doing?” He explained that it’s part of the competitive energy of the game, and that there’s no shame in fighting on the court. “These are two really good teams, so guys should expect that. If you don’t have that energy, you’re not showing that you want to win,” he added.
Ross also clarified that the incident was not immediately linked to Jojo Lastimosa, TNT manager. “It wasn’t Jolas. It was some fans or family members who were telling me to get off the court and hurry up. If I’m hurt, I’m hurt, so I think it’s disrespectful to rush a player if he is hurt. There should be a line drawn when someone’s hurt,” he said. He noted that after the game, Lastimosa apologized to him.
Despite the parties being arranged, Ross's injury situation remains a concern. It's an ankle issue that the Beermen's deputy coach has also been involved in. However, Ross assured that he is ready to return for the next game. “I’ve got two days to get healthier. I’m a quick healer, so hopefully I’ll be fine on Wednesday,” he said.
The San Miguel Beermen can maintain their series lead if they win Game 4, which begins at 7:30 p.m. at the Mall of Asia Arena. As the match heats up, each team will surely test their strength and strategy in their quest for the championship.
