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MANILA, Philippines—Greg Slaughter put together commendable efforts on both ends to will NorthPort past Rain or Shine in overtime, 91-88, Sunday and bounce back from a gut-wrenching loss to Magnolia just two nights ago.
Left out in the final play in the clash with the Hotshots, Slaughter put up 25 points and 11 boards while also blocking Gabe Norwood’s potential game-tying triple—his sixth rejection overall—to seal Batang Pier’s return to the win column in the PBA Philippine Cup at Don Honorio Ventura State University in Bacolor, Pampanga.
“We’re just a team that wants to win. A lot of frustration last time–anytime you lose a game. But that makes us hungrier for the next one. We trust in each other, we trust in coach Pido and we just pull it together as we knew that we had to move on to the next one,” said the 7-foot center, who was acquired from Barangay Ginebra during the offseason.
Though he already expressed his regret over that coaching boo-boo last Friday, Jarencio used the customary post-game chat reserved for winning clubs to convey his apology to his ward.
“I am apologetic to Slaughter and the rest of the team,” he said. “We’ve patched up things. We’re here to work. We are professionals.”
That couldn’t be more fitting for Robert Bolick, who finished with six rebounds and seven assists despite a bum hamstring.
Skipper Sean Anthony was also limping late, but still managed to add nine points and 10 boards to help the Batang Pier improve to 5-5, tying NLEX for a place in the middle of the pack.
Jewel Ponferrada led the way for already-qualified Rain or Shine with 17 points in a support role. Beau Belga tossed in 11 in the losing effort as the Painters slid to a 6-5 record.
Jarencio, who notched his first victory since returning from a bout with COVID-19, also sent a strongly-worded message for his detractors on social media.
“For my bashers, my haters, you’re talking nonsense. I’ve played (basketball) for 17 years and coached for 12 years and never have I figured in any anomaly,” he said. “I leave you all to God. I love you all.”
The Scores
NorthPort 91 – Slaughter 25, Bolick 24, Anthony 9, Malonzo 8, Elorde 7, Lanete 6, Ferrer 4, Grey 4, Onwubere 3, Rike 1, Balanza 0, Doliguez 0.
Rain or Shine 88 – Ponferada 17, Belga 11, Yap 9, Santillan 9, Borboran 8, Torres 8, Mocon 8, Nambatac 6, Asistio 5, Norwood 3, Guinto 2, Caracut 2, Wong 0.
Quarters: 27-16, 42-37, 65-60, 80-80, 91-88.