Barangay Ginebra forward Justin Brownlee gestures after hitting a 3-pointer against Rain or Shine. PBA IMAGES
MANILA, Philippines—Barangay Ginebra got it together just in time to carve out a 104-93 victory at the expense of Rain or Shine at Smart Araneta Coliseum—a crucial win that plucked the reigning Governors’ Cup champions out of harm’s way.
Justin Brownlee, Jeff Chan, and Scottie Thompson conspired for a 15-0 tear midway the final frame to wrest the lead from the Painters, who were playing for pride after being eliminated by San Miguel Beer last Thursday.
“This is the first time that we were able to grind out a win, relying on our defense more than our offense, so I’m really proud of my guys,” said coach Tim Cone, whose charges improved to 6-5 record that assured the crowd darlings a spot in the quarterfinals.
“This is the way you got to play in the playoffs and this is what we are preparing for, to make it to the playoffs and make some noise,” Cone went on.
Christian Standhardinger turned in 20 points to go with Brownlee’s 25, and Thompson and Chan’s 15 each.
Henry Walker led the way for Rain or Shine with 34 points. Andrei Caracut and Beau Belga added 12 each as the Painters wrapped up their classification round campaign at 3-8.
The Scores
Barangay Ginebra 104 – Brownlee 25, Standhardinger 20, Thompson 15, Chan 15, J. Aguilar 10, Tenorio 9, Pinto 6, Onwubere 4, Tolentino 0.
Rain or Shine 93 – Walker 34, Caracut 12, Belga 12, Mocon 8, Borboran 7, Ponferada 7, Nieto 5, Nambatac 4, Guinto 2, Norwood 2, Jackson 0, Asistio 0, Torres 0.
Quarters: 20-23, 50-41, 73-77, 104-93.