The element of pressure and possibly the word “motivation” will not be involved when Smart-Gilas
Pilipinas and Meralco face off Saturday as the two teams wind up their elimination round schedule in
the 2011 PBA Commissioner’s Cup.

Even so, Smart-Gilas Pilipinas coach Rajko Toroman assured everyone that the Nationals will play
with the same focus and level of intensity in the 6 p.m. match at the Tacloban Convention Center in
Tacloban City billed “PBA-Phoenix Fuel on Tour”.

With a 7-1 record, the Nationals, playing here as guest team in preparation for the big stage –
the Olympic Qualifying Fiba Asia Championship in August – have clinched one of the two automatic
semifinal berths and could possibly earn the top seeding with another victory.

In contrast, the Bolts (2-6) look headed for the exit along with three others, blowing their chances
to get through the playoffs following successive, disappointing losses against Alaska and Air21.

“I think we showed that this team got character. We improve every game,” Toroman said.

The march to the playoffs by the Nationals isn’t surprising.

Many had anticipated them to match the feat by a similar Philippine Team that carried the colors of
the Northern Consolidated Cement considering their skills, talent and with the help of naturalized
Filipino Marcus Douthit, the tallest performer in the conference at 6-foot-11.

Backstopped by Hector Calma and powered by three naturalized Filipinos – Dennis Still, Jeff Moore
and Chip Engeland – NCC swept Manila Beer in the Finals (4-0) to capture the 1985 Reinforced
Conference.

Although the game has no significance, Toroman said their goal is still the same. They want to
develop defensive and mental toughness and improve their confidence.

“Every game is important to us,” proclaimed Toroman with assurance that “we will play Meralco
the way we play every team and we’ll try to win the game.” (DBC)