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"Christmas Clasico" ushers new chapter in Ginebra-Star rivalry
By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA, Dec. 24 (PNA) -- A new era in the bitter rivalry between crowd favorites Ginebra and Star will begin on Christmas night at the Philippine Arena in Bocaue.

In a rare moment, the latest chapter of the so-called "Manila Clasico" at 5:15 p.m. will be an essential out-of-town game.

Also, this is the first time both teams clash since Star let go of James Yap, whose on-court battles with Mark Caguioa catapulted the rivalry to what it is today.

However, the future looks bright for the Clasico as the matchup between rising star point guards Scottie Thompson and Jio Jalalon is the one being anticipated this time around.

The curtain-raiser at 3 p.m. is equally compelling as Blackwater looks to go back to solo second against winless Mahindra.

A win will not just put the Elite at sole possession of the second spot at 5-2 but also put them at a possibility of ending 2016 at number one in the team standings should the San Miguel Beermen lose to the Meralco Bolts on Wednesday night at the Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay.

As a Christmas treat, the PBA, in partnership with JAM Liner, will provide bus service to ticket holders going to the Philippine Arena from JAM's Pasay and Quezon City terminals and vice versa. (PNA)

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