Mark Barroca. PBA IMAGES
MANILA, Philippines—Veteran guard Mark Barroca still played a starring role despite coming off the bench in Magnolia’s big win over rival Barangay Ginebra on Sunday.
Thriving as a reserve, Barroca led all locals with 21 points that went with three rebounds and three assists in 31 minutes.
“Me and coach talked before the game and he told me that my time and minutes would be adjusted so I came off the bench. In my first games, I was still adjusting but now, I’m slowly getting into my rhythm. I’m also staying aggressive because in our first two games, we weren’t so aggressive,” he said in Filipino.
The 36-year-old Barroca had an efficient night shooting 8-of-12 from the field and also had two steals to help the Hotshots score a 118-88 romp over the Gin Kings.
“That’s my mentality, I need to defend and contribute in offense for our second group,” Barroca said.
Barroca fired nine points alone in the pivotal second quarter where Magnolia pulled away and led 59-37 at the intermission.
“I’m very proud of my players because they really took my challenge, especially this guy, off the bench, he gave us our energy. It’s good because he’s very motivated since it’s his anniversary,” said Magnolia coach Chito Victolero of Barroca.
Victolero also commended Hester, who had led the Hotshots to back-to-back victories since he replaced Erik McCree.
“Hester is also a very big factor for us. He changed the pace and tempo of our game. Without Ian, at least we now have a go-to guy in the post which creates a lot of opportunities for our small guys,” Victolero said.
Hester dominated with 28 points, 18 rebounds and nine assists as Magnolia improved to 2-3.