PBA: Jalalon leads Magnolia defensive clinic in winning debut

Magnolia guard Jio Jalalon.–PBA IMAGES

MANILA, Philippines—Magnolia opened its campaign in the PBA Philippine Cup in a dominant way after dispatching Converge, 106-75, at Rizal Memorial Coliseum on Saturday.

It was a defensive clinic by Hotshots, who held the FiberXers to just 36 percent from the field with 22 turnovers, anchored by reigning Defensive Player of the Year Jio Jalalon.

Jalalon had his fingerprints all over Magnolia’s masterclass with 14 points, three rebounds, seven assists and five steals.

SCHEDULE: 2024 PBA Philippine Cup

“For me, I’m just doing my work in Magnolia. That’s my role, to be pesky on defense. It’ll just be another blessing if that award comes my way again but for me, I’m just doing my part in the team,” said Jalalon.

Jalalon’s playmaking was also crucial for the Hotshots, who shot a blistering 52 percent clip.

“I’m just playing my role and returning my coaches’ trust in me with how I work inside the court, how I bring them to the court and how I make them happy. I, myself, get happy when I pass it to them and they shoot it.”

READ: PBA: Magnolia outclasses winless Converge

But it wasn’t just Jalalon who made it tough for Converge with veteran guard Mark Barroca also playing solid on both ends of the floor.

Barroca collected 12 points, six assists and five steals.

Both Jalalon and Barroca tallying five steals each was no coincidence considering how hard they work in practice.

“In practice, both of us are really competitive so when it comes to the game, it’s just normal to us. Our defense is our strength, that’s why we do it so easily.”