MANILA, Philippines–Magnolia flashed its might on defense when it mattered to hold off Rain or Shine, 69-68, in Friday in the PBA Governors’ Cup at Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.
“It’s a test of our character. We were just mentally (tougher) in the end,” said Hotshots coach Chito Victolero, whose charges improved to 2-1.
Import Romeo Travis took charge in scoring, accounting for the Hotshots’ 26 points to go with 14 rebounds.
Old reliables Mark Barroca and Ian Sangalang both added eight in the effort.
“Our defense is our strength. We’ve gotten it back. That was what we were lacking [in the] last conference,” said Victolero who lauded the Hotshots’ effort down the stretch just when the Painters were trying to complete a comeback.
Javee Mocon had 14 for the Rain or Shine, while debuting reinforcement Kayel Locke had 14 in the losing stand that gave them a 1-3 card.
Magnolia faces winless Alaska next on Sunday at Araneta Coliseum in Cubao while Rain or Shine goes up against Phoenix Pulse next Wednesday at Cuneta Astrodome, also in Pasay.
POST-GAME INTERVIEW