GINEBRA’S days of trying to outshoot its opponents are gone. At least coach Jong Uichico hopes so.

The Kings are now displaying an inclination to play defense, showcased by a 79-68 win over the Alaska Aces last Sunday that enabled the perennial crowd favorites to stretch their winning streak to five and move in on a top two slot in the PBA Philippine Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.

Mark Caguioa and Willie Miller provided the endgame surge that Ginebra needed, but it was his team’s ability to stymie and stifle a disciplined and organized crew like Alaska that pleased Uichico no end.

"Scorer’s mentality kasi lahat ng players that we have," he said. "We’ve got to get a defensive mentality also. It makes them well rounded and the game easier. We know we have enough scorers, and we know we have to defend also.

"They’re trying to accept that defensive mentality. That’s why our team defense is that way, because of that acceptance."

The Kings held the Aces to just five points and only two field goals in the final 4:05 of play while ripping the game wide open. As a result, Ginebra improved its win-loss record to 6-2 and a tie with idle Talk N Text for second-running spot behind San Miguel Beer (7-2) while dropping Alaska to 4-5 and a tie with Meralco and B-Meg Derby Ace at fifth.

The Kings can take over solo second if they stretch their winning roll to a tournament-best six with a victory over Barako Bull tomorrow since the Beermen and Tropang Texters collide in the other game.

Noli Cortez, Business Insight Malaya