The reigning PBA Commissioner's Cup kings, Barangay Ginebra, have been struggling to regain their royal form in the early goings of the Governors' Cup.
The team, led by coach Tim Cone, has only managed one impressive win, a 115-85 rout of Blackwater, amidst a pair of setbacks to Phoenix and Rain or Shine.
Sunday's loss to Rain or Shine even led to coach Cone blasting his charges for their "really, really, really poor effort" and "worst in a long time."
Coach Cone acknowledged that it's tough getting players going after a championship, likening it to "pulling teeth" to get everyone on the same page and working hard.
The team faces a doubly challenging task with Justin Brownlee sidelined by injuries and Scottie Thompson out with hamstring issues.
Import Riley Grigsby is manning the fort for now, but coach Cone said production from the rest of the team has been lacking.
The challenge is to come out and play better, with coach Cone saying that production from the rest of the team is crucial for success.
Barangay Ginebra attempts to steer back on track on Friday against Meralco at the SM MOA Arena.
The Bolts themselves are coming off a 98-112 defeat to erstwhile winless Magnolia, making them driven to get a rebound in the 7:30 p.m. clash.
Rain or Shine, meanwhile, has found its groove after a listless 0-2 start and would like to keep this going against rejuvenated Magnolia in the 5:15 p.m. opener.
The Elasto Painters vaulted to the Top 4 with its big victory over Ginebra and before that, a 105-98 toppling of erstwhile spotless Phoenix, the group's topnotcher after the first round.
Coach Yeng Guiao's team is now looking to build on their momentum against Magnolia, who are seeking to start rolling on the heels of their recent breakthrough win.
