Ginebra overpowers Meralco to pull closer to PBA Governors’ Cup crown

MANILA, Philippines — Meralco has the Best Import, but Barangay Ginebra just simply has the better team.

The Gin Kings outclassed the Bolts, 94-72, in Game 4 Wednesday night to close in on another PBA Governors’ Cup title at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Justin Brownlee set the tone for Ginebra, firing 17 of his 27 points in the first half as the Kings had little trouble in disposing Meralco for a commanding 3-1 series lead.

“Obviously, Raymond Almazan’s injury changed the complexion of the series. He showed a lot of courage playing but we all know he’s not playing 100 percent,” said Ginebra coach Tim Cone, referring to Meralco’s star center, who played despite suffering a lateral meniscal tear in his left knee early in Game 3.

“I thought we were really methodical tonight in breaking them down on the offensive side and we did a great job against Durham. We held him to eight points in the first half and that’s amazing.”

Brownlee also collected eight rebounds and eight assists in another all-around effort while Stanley Pringle added 21 points and seven rebounds.

Allen Durham, who took home his third Best Import award before the game, still finished with 21 points and 27 rebounds but shot just 9-of-23 from the field and had six turnovers.

Ginebra shoots for its third Governors’ Cup title in four years Friday night at Mall of Asia Arena.