Magnolia Hotshots’ Jerrick Ahanmisi in the PBA On Tour. –PBA IMAGES
Magnolia got another strong performance from its second unit to blow out NorthPort, 125-89, and remain unbeaten halfway into its campaign in the PBA On Tour on Friday at Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.
Jerrick Ahanmisi, Joseph Eriobu, James Laput, Jackson Corpuz and Jed Mendoza joined forces in giving the Hotshots their sixth victory in as many games in the exhibition series being used by coach Chito Victolero in hopes of shoring up his roster for the 48th season.
“I’m happy because we’re committed with what we’re doing and what we’re preparing,” said Victolero.
Ahanmisi topscored with 23 points after hitting 9 of 11 shots, including five from three-point land, to pace Magnolia.
Eriobu had 16 points, four rebounds and three assists, Laput produced 15 points and seven rebounds, Corpuz fell short of a double-double with 14 points and nine rebounds while Mendoza scored all 11 in the first half with seven assists.
Paul Lee, Mark Barroca and Jio Jalalon once again played restricted minutes while Ian Sangalang was used sparingly as he continues to get his way back after being out for months due to an illness.
The Hotshots halted the three-game winning streak of the Batang Pier, who dropped to an even 3-3 win-loss slate.
Arvin Tolentino tallied 19 points and JM Calma made 12 points and 10 rebounds for NorthPort.
The scores:
MAGNOLIA 125—Ahanmisi 23, Eriobu 16, Laput 15, Corpuz 14, Dela Rosa 11, Mendoza 11, Barroca 10, Lee 8, Jalalon 8, Murrell 5, Reavis 4, Sangalang 0.
NORTHPORT 89—Tolentino 19, Calma 12, Munzon 10, Salado 10, Yu 9, Zamar 9, Ayaay 5, Santos 4, Gabriel 3, Comboy 3, Olivario 3, Bulawan 2, Sobrevega 0, Bauzon 0, Balagasay 0.
Quarters: 21-21, 53-41, 83-64, 125-89.