Magnolia Hotshots vs Phoenix Fuel Masters Prediction & Betting Tips - PBA, Governors Cup

Prediction published on 17/03/2022, 08:23  by Joseph King | Modified on 17/03/2022 at 14:24 in Basketball Predictions

The PBA Governors’ Cup continues with the quarterfinals when the top seeded Magnolia Hotshots host the eighth seed Phoenix Fuelmasters in a win or go home game for the visitors. The PBA playoff structure utilizes a twice-to-win, once-to-lose format for the quarterfinals, where the higher seeded team only needs to win once to progress while the lower seed needs to win two straight to advance to the semi finals. Phoenix are truly up against all odds here as they not only come into this game as massive underdogs, but they will need to repeat a spectacular upset in the next game if they are even able to get there. Magnolia fans will surely be thinking championship but the Hotshots weren’t able to sustain their positive momentum and enter the playoffs coming off a close 101-100 loss to close out the regular season. Phoenix on the other hand, are fortunate to even qualify for the playoffs. They come into the postseason on an awful run of form, losing their final regular season game 109-90 to the Bolts and only managing one win in their last five games.

In a league that is influenced so greatly by the import players that the clubs manage to bring in, Magnolia are fortunate to have one of the league’s best in Mike Harris. The 38-year-old American brings a wealth of experience to the team with an extensive resume that has seen him play all around the world. His age hasn’t slowed him down this season as he has competed in every regular season game for the Hotshots and has put up eye-catching numbers. Averaging 29.6 points per game and 13.4 rebounds while shooting an incredibly efficient 54% from the field, Harris’ name will certainly be in the discussion for the best import award. The host’s quality should ultimately shine through in this one as they shouldn’t have too much trouble dealing with a struggling Phoenix side. While there might not be too much value on the moneyline, the spread presents a very reasonable number that looks to be a profitable bet.