Ginebra thwarts Alaska

MANILA, Philippines – Nino Canaleta provided the scoring punch as Barangay Ginebra hacked out a much-needed win at the expense of Alaska, 85-77, Wednesday in the 37th PBA Philippine Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Canaleta unloaded 14 of his game-high 21 points in the second half, where the Gin Kings managed to finally pull away.

“He [Canaleta] played big for us. He has the ability to spread the floor and play as an added rebounder for us because of his length,” commended Ginebra co-head coach Siot Tanquingcen.

Cortez also shone with 13 points including a dagger of a jumper that extended Ginebra’s lead to six, 83-77, with 30.5 ticks remaining.

“It’s crucial [the win], it’s like a do-or-die game for us, because it’s hard to climb out when you’re down,” added Tanquingcen, whose squad evened its win-loss record at 5-5. “We just want to stay competitive.”

The Gin Kings’ offense clicked when they needed it most as they went on a 10-2 blitz for a 76-67 spread at the 6:36 mark of the fourth period capped by a transition basket by Billy Mamaril.

The Aces rallied and moved to within two, 77-79, nearing the last two minutes of the game after a reverse by Tony Dela Cruz.

But Alaska’s comeback fell short as costly errors dampened its chances. The Aces’ troubles continue as they dropped to 3-8.

Sonny Thoss paced Alaska, which only made one-of-12 from three-point area, with 13 points.