Magnolia wanted to send message right away in first game back

Magnolia import Mike Harris

Magnolia import Mike Harris. PBA IMAGES

MANILA, Philippines–Magnolia coach Chito Victolero was worried about a couple of things heading his team’s debut in the 2021 Governors’ Cup.

None of which came to fruition when the Hotshots handed the Terrafirma Dyip a 114-87 beatdown on Wednesday night.

“What I was really worried about is the rhythm and the timing,” Victolero said in Filipino. “In the first quarter, almost everyone was excited, but once we settled down, our defense got better.”

After a slow start, Magnolia started to click on both ends in the second quarter where it took control with an 11-point lead at the half.

The Hotshots, led by Mike Harris, were never threatened the rest of the way.

Magnolia is eyeing to bounce back after falling short in the Philippine Cup Finals.

Following a dominant debut, the Hotshots’ redemption tour is officially underway.

“We want to send a message right away.”

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