THE BARANGAY Ginebra Kings try to recapture a kingdom they once ruled a long time ago tonight in Game 6 of the Gran Matador PBA Philippine Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.

Only a victory over the tough Talk ’N Text Phone Pals separate the Kings from their first All-Filipino crown since 1988 when they beat rookie squad Purefoods Hotdogs in the finals.

Leading the cast of the league’s version of the "Return of the Kings" is Ginebra’s youthful mentor Siot Tanquingcen, who is gunning for his second title in as many conferences.

The Kings are eyeing their first back-to-back titles in franchise history. They won the Fiesta Conference last year, the only crown at stake in 2004.

"We have two chances, but the best thing to do is take the shorter route," said Tanquingcen.

A balanced attack gave the Kings the advantage.

Unlike in their previous game, the Kings didn’t rely too much on Mark Caguioa offensively as five players notched twin-figures.

The result is encouraging for the Kings as they looked fresher than the Phone Pals in the endgame for the first time in the series.

Still, don’t expect the Phone Pals to roll out the red carpet.

"We’re thankful we’re still alive in the series. We just have to make the most out of it," said TNT coach Joel Banal.

Banal must be referring to the series of unfortunate events that have come their way early in the series, which had them losing a won Game 1 by forfeiture.

Meanwhile, the Office of the Commissioner has yet to receive a copy of the court ruling regarding their motion for reconsideration until near the end of office hours yesterday.

PBA Commissioner Noli Eala said they would go straight to the Court of Appeals in case of a double jeopardy in the Quezon City Regional Trial Court.

"Our stand on the matter is clear. Asi won’t be able to play until he complies with the league’s policy of reinstatement," said Eala.