But coach Louie Alas has two long weeks to make sure that the Patriots stay on top form as the defending champions wait for their title opponents.

“I told them (players) you don't have to surprised with your performance, you can still do a lot better than that,” said Alas.

With the local led by Egay Billiones and Benedict Fernandez stepping up, the Patriots picked up the first championship berth by sweeping the Westport Kuala Lumpur Dragons, 2-0, in the best-of-three semifinals series last week in Kuala Lumpur.

The Chang Thailand Slammers shoot for the remaining title slot against Singapore Slingers in Game 2 of their own semifinal duel at 8 o' clock tonight at the Singapore Indoor Stadium.

The Slammers, the tournament top seeds, clinched the 1-0 advantage after downing the Slingers, 81-76 in overtime last week.

“Either team can give us a tough challenge,” said Alas.

Game 1 of the best-of-three championship series is set Feb. 13.

“We're ready for the Finals; that's what we're here for,” said Steve Thomas, the Patriots' hulking American import who raised his game in recent weeks to lead the league in rebounds at 17 boards per game aside from averaging 13.9 points.

The defending champion Patriots resumed practice just a couple of days after disposing of the Dragons, 95-92, in a rough Game 2 battle where Billiones, Fernandez and Thomas shone.

Three days earlier, Gabe Freeman also had a terrific 36-points outing in the semifinal opener won by the Patriots at home, 88-83, against the Dragons

Jasmine Payo, Phil. Daily Inquirer