Expect the Beast to be unleashed on Friday and beyond.
Calvin Abueva is extra motivated heading into the PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals between his squad, Magnolia, and its foe, San Miguel.
While the Chicken Timplados Hotshots are keen to get back on their 2019 Philippine Cup Finals tormentor, the Beermen, Abueva, who was still with Phoenix at the time, has another goal in mind.
The Beast is raring to win his first championship since 2013 as he aims to fulfill a personal dream – to build his own house.
“Gutom na gutom (manalo). Kung makuha namin 'to, makakapagpatayo na ako ng bahay siguro,” said Abueva, drawing laughter from the members of the media during today's presser for the upcoming best-of-seven series.
After the event, Abueva was again asked about his abovementioned plan. He answered in the affirmative.
“Actually, medyo-medyo. Sana makuha natin ['yung championship] para makuha ko 'yung best thing na maireregalo ko ngayong taon para sa akin,” he said.
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After that, the energizer bunny hopped out of the scrum with a big smile as he headed to Magnolia’s practice session.
The Hotshots only had a day to prepare for tomorrow's finals after they figured in an extended semis battle against the gritty Fuel Masters Wednesday night. Magnolia prevailed, 3-1.
Still, the Chicken Timplados Hotshots are unperturbed.
Magnolia coach Chito Victolero said that it is only a matter of mindset. And fans could expect to see the Hotshots ready to roll once the title showdown unfurls at the Mall of Asia Arena.
“We’re used to that. It's all about the mindset. Kapag sinabi ng minds nating pagod [tayo], 'yun 'yung lalabas sa atin," said Victolero.
"My players are trained to play every other day. We have experienced that before. The only disadvantage is 'yung preparation. But in terms of conditioning, these players are professional. They know what to do. I think we're ready," he added.
Game One hostilities begin at 7:30 p.m. Fans at home could tune in on the action on RPTV, A2Z, PBA Rush and the Pilipinas Live app.