Back in the series

Ian Sangalang knew all Magnolia needed was one win to get back into a series that seemed irrevocably lost after two games.

He helped the Hotshots get that win.

Sangalang scored all his 16 points in the second half, including 10 under the final six minutes of the game as Magnolia carved out an 85-74 victory over Rain or Shine in Game 3 of their PBA Philippine Cup semifinal series at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Elasto Painters, who fought back from 10 points down to take control early in the third period, still lead the series, 2-1, but Sangalang believes that one win could be all the Hotshots need.

“We knew we needed just that one win,” he said on national TV in Filipino after the game. “We believed that if we could win one, the other wins will follow.”

Sangalang also had 11 rebounds in the game and shot 7 for 15 after going scoreless in the first half, where he missed all his four shot attempts.

He broke the game’s last two deadlocks as he toyed around with Rain or Shine’s Norbert Torres down low. By the time the Painters responded by fielding in veteran Beau Belga, it didn’t matter. Sangalang added two free throws and a basket as the Hotshots closed out strongly with their defense.

Magnolia held Rain or Shine scoreless in the last 4:03 of the game. After rookie Javee Mocon completed a three-point play to push the Painters to within 76-74, Rain or Shine went 0-5 from the field to end the game.

Paul Lee also had 16 points for Magnolia along with six rebounds, as the Hotshots guards helped their team outrebound the Painters, 71-49.

Playmakers Mark Barroca and Jio Jalalon had 10 rebounds each to make up for substandard shooting nights.

“We just wanted to bring back Magnolia’s brand of basketball … even though we’re tired, and have been playing for seven games in 14 nights,” said Magnolia coach Chito Victolero.

“We know we still need three more wins. But we’re looking to rest first and then eventually, prepare for Game 4,” he added.

The two teams clash Monday next week with Magnolia hoping to square the series by then.

Mocon finished with 18 points, hitting five of his 12 attempts from the floor, and added nine rebounds to lead Rain or Shine while Belga chipped in 12. Torres added 10 for the Painters.