Barangay Ginebra coach Tim Cone. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines–Coach Tim Cone is delighted that Barangay Ginebra was able to make a big response from Justin Brownlee’s awful shooting the last time and gain a 2-1 lead over TNT in the PBA Governors’ Cup Finals.
The Gin Kings prevailed 117-103 win on Friday at Smart Araneta Coliseum, not only because Brownlee regained his old self but also the support provided by the locals, particularly on the offensive end.
Ginebra hit 18 triples to set a franchise record, with Jamie Malonzo and Stanley Pringle each hitting six from downtown.
“I think the other guys knew and realized they had to pick it up for Justin. You just can’t go and keep going to Justin, Justin, Justin all the time,” Cone said during the customary postgame press conference.
“Other guys got to contribute, other guys got to be aggressive and take their shots. I thought we did a better job of trying to execute tonight. I thought that’s what was lacking in the last game, we just didn’t execute.”
Barangay Ginebra’s Jamie Malonzo. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
Malonzo produced 27 points capped off by two triples during a decisive pullaway in the fourth which came after TNT tied the count at 88-all.
Pringle earned a starting nod for the first time this conference and responded with 22 points on a perfect 7-of-7 clip.
Brownlee topscored with 29 points, making 11 of 19 attempts which was a huge difference from Ginebra’s 95-82 loss in Game 2.
He also drained three from beyond the arc to also aid Ginebra’s 56-percent shooting.
“That’s a really high percentage for a three-point shooting team,” Cone said.
Barangay Ginebra coach Tim Cone praises Stanley Pringle and the rest of the team for stepping up after a rough Game 2 loss marred by Justin Brownlee's offensive struggles. | @jonasterradoINQ pic.twitter.com/fWthE1fchu
— INQUIRER Sports (@INQUIRERSports) April 14, 2023