Magnolia Hotshots forward Calvin Abueca reacts during their game against the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters in the 2021 PBA Governors’ Cup at Araneta Coliseum. PBA IMAGES
MANILA, Philippines—Magnolia had its way in the paint on both ends to pound Rain or Shine, 109-98, in the 2021 PBA Governors’ Cup Sunday at Araneta Coliseum.
Mike Harris and Calvin Abueva were a handful as both combined for 44 points, 15 rebounds and three blocks for the Hotshots.
“It started with our defense. We wanted to control the pace of the game. I told my players before the start of the game that we have to have that mental toughness because we know that it’s going to be a very physical game,” said Magnolia head coach Chito Victolero.
Harris led with 26 points while Abueva was a rebound short of a double-double with 18 points and nine rebounds.
Magnolia outscored Rain or Shine in the shaded area, 54-28, while also recording 12 blocks.
“The good thing is that we continue to execute on our offense and on both ends of the floor,” added Victolero, whose squad swept the Elasto Painters in the Philippine Cup quarterfinals last September.
Jio Jalalon’s playmaking was also a big factor as the guard collected 14 points and 10 assists for Magnolia (2-0), which had 20 assists as a team against only five turnovers.
Rain or Shine (2-2) had three players with at least 20 points led by Rey Nambatac and Henry Walker, who scored 23 each. Javee Mocon tallied 20 points.