Ginebra’s Japeth Aguilar in the PBA Philippine Cup. –PBA IMAGES
MANILA, Philippines–Barangay Ginebra ended the elimination phase of its PBA Philippine Cup in style on Thursday night, taking down Phoenix Super LPG, 100-93, at Smart Araneta Coliseum in Cubao.
Japeth Aguilar turned in 17 points off the bench as he continued to recover from the ill effects of dengue fever, while Scottie Thompson chipped in a double-double of 14 points and 14 rebounds for the Gin Kings, who finished with an 8-3 win-loss record.
“It’s been a process getting ready for the playoffs,” said coach Tim Cone. “We’re less record-concerned as we are team-prepared concerned.”
Aljon Mariano chipped in 13 points, also backup role. Stanley Pringle and Nard Pinto added in 10 each while rookie Jayson David made the most out of his playing time, scoring four points that went with seven rebounds.
Ginebra could play Meralco or NLEX in the quarterfinals which begin this Sunday, depending on Magnolia’s final game against Blackwater this Friday.
Jason Perkins had 17, while Sean Anthony added 16 points to Phoenix which played without Matthew Wright who has left the country to prepare for his wedding.
Rookie Tyler Tio added 13 points, while Larry Muyang 12 as the Fuel Masters, who were officially eliminated from playoff contention the night before, ended their conference at 3-8.
The Scores:
GINEBRA 100 – J.Aguilar 17, Thompson 14, Mariano 13, Pinto 10, Pringle 10, Chan 9, Standhardinger 8, Onwubere 7, Tenorio 4, Caperal 4, David 4
PHOENIX 93 – Perkins 17, Anthony 16, Tio 13, Muyang 12, Serrano 7, Melecio 6, Garcia 5, Jazul 5, Porter 5, Lalata 3, Rios 2, Robles 2
QUARTERS: 22-14, 47-45, 76-66, 100-93