The Terrafirma Dyip laid down their plans in achieving their goal of making it to the quarterfinals in the 48th season of the PBA – and it starts with their defense.
Terrafirma coach Johnedel Cardel greeted members of the press at the Smart Araneta Coliseum with a big smile in the aftermath of the Dyip's 99-95 win over NLEX in the PBA Season 48 Philippine Cup on Sunday, March 2.
Terrafirma rolled to its second straight win in as many games after following up on its opening victory over Converge just two days ago.
This is the squad's best start since the 2016 Governors' Cup.
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Though it was obvious that the Dyip mentor was happy with the feat, Cardel did not look like he was about to celebrate as he points out the work that needs to be done to sustain their showing.
“Kung ano lang ang ginagawa namin sa practice, we have to continue that especially we’re focusing on our team and individual defense,” Cardel said when asked about how to maintain this impressive start.
“Kasi 'yun lang ang nagpapanalo sa’min. Kailangan naming magtulungan kasi maliliit kami.”
Indeed, the Dyip turned to their defense to overhaul a 10-point halftime deficit and made it a tight battle with the Road Warriors until the final buzzer.
With a team that boasts of top-calibre players like Juami Tiongson and Stephen Holt who can explode on any given night, Cardel believes defense will make a world of difference as Terrafirma looks to make the playoffs this conference.
“Kailangan naming ilaban ‘to every game. 'Yung goal namin, makapasok naman kami sa quarterfinals. Hindi lang kami ang lumalakas na team, lahat ng teams lumalakas. Kaya every game is very important for us. We have to play together," said Cardel.
"This time, they believe na 'pag nagtulung-tulong sila sa depensa, we can win more ball games.”
Terrafirma will look to sustain their strong showing against TNT on Saturday, March 9. Gametime is at 3 p.m.