Brownlee scored 11 of his total in the fourth period and four locals scored in twin digits in backing up the reigning Best Import as Ginebra rose to a level 3-3 record while dealing the Beermen their third loss in four games.
“Just two heavyweights going at each other,” said Ginebra coach Tim Cone, who noted the playoff intensity of the match. “It took an extra round. But I liked the game because of [my team’s] character.”
Charles Rhodes had 34 points and 12 rebounds for San Miguel, while Chris Ross had a triple-double of 11 points, 13 rebounds and 11 assists that went to naught.
Magnolia’s defense was at its best when it mattered in the first game as the Hotshots held off a hard-fighting Columbian side, 110-103.
“Our defense was clunky at first, we weren’t as solid as we usually are. The good thing in the second half was we did a much better job,” said coach Chito Victolero in Filipino.
“Slowly but surely, this prepares us for the tough teams we’re about to face,” he added, as his charges improved to 2-2.
James Farr and Ian Sangalang paced the Hotshots with 22 points each.
Paul Lee had 21 coming off the bench and Jio Jalalon tossed in 17.
The Dyip were paced by Lester Prosper’s 26 points and 14 boards. Four locals added double-digit efforts to give Columbian a fighting chance in the stretch.
Victolero, whose Hotshots played three matches in just six days, heaved a sigh of relief after tabbing two victories. He added that it was largely due to Farr’s commendable contributions.