Ginebra import Brownlee leads the Gin Kings anew. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Phiilippines–Hot on offense and unforgiving on defense, defending champion Barangay Ginebra proved too much for Magnolia in the 106-80 win tabbed the first semifinals slot in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup, Tuesday night at Araneta Coliseum in Cubao.
The Gin Kings, learning from their narrow escape in the series-opener, ran the Hotshots to ground this time and forged a semifinal duel with either No. 1 TNT or a dangerous Alaska side.
“I think we just had a little too much firepower for them tonight,” coach Tim Cone said in the post-game presser.
“When we’re really clicking, we’re a tough team to stop—no doubt about it,” he added.
Import Justin Brownlee carried the offense anew—most especially in a massive third quarter where they outscored their foes, 40-21—leading the crowd darlings with 30 points and plucking nine rebounds.
Four more tossed in 11 or more for the Gin Kings whose bid for a second straight conference crown remains intact.
Magnolia drew 17 points from Mark Barroca and 15 more from Rakeem Christmas. Ian Sangalang added 12 in the effort to round out the only twin-digit performances for the Hotshots.