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Import James White continued to impress and Mahindra kept its winning ways, stunning San Miguel Beer, 105-103, to remain undefeated in the 2016 PBA Governors’ Cup Wednesday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.
White, the lengthy and athletic forward, ran circles around the Beermen’s bigger but slower big men to finish with 34 points and 11 rebounds to lead the league-leading Enforcer to a 3-0 record.
KG Canaleta and Paolo Taha added 17 and 12 points, respectively for Mahindra, which blew leads as big as 12 before holding off a San Miguel fightback led by Arizona lead in the fourth quarter.
“My guys showed fortitude. We’re approaching every game like it’s a playoff game so there’s a do-or-die attitude out there,” said Mahindra deputy Chris Gavina.
“Their sheer determination and consistency on offense and defense came through tonight.”
Reid erupted for 43 points, 25 coming in the second half, but his 3-pointer that would’ve completed the Beermen’s rally hit the front of the rim and sailed out.
Gavina also acknowledged the presence of Mahindra playing-coach Manny Pacquiao, whose appearance came to the team’s surprise.
“No, not at all,” Gavina said when asked if the team knew Pacquiao will show up. “His presence alone really gave us a double motivation and inspiration cause every time you see Manny you really wanna go to war for him.”
“He said to just stay focused and stay in the moment. Follow the game plan and just believe in each other.”