Ginebra’s Justin Brownlee celebrates after making a shot during Game 3 of their PBA Governors’ Cup quarterfinals series against Meralco.–PBA IMAGES
SCHEDULE: 2024 PBA Governors’ Cup quarterfinals
MANILA, Philippines–Barangay Ginebra picked the most opportune time to catch fire, hitting one tough basket after another down the stretch to beat Meralco, 114-106, Monday night and tab a semifinal berth in the PBA Governors’ Cup.
Stephen Holt, the Reigning Rookie of the Year whom the Gin Kings acquired during the offseason, put up 19 points, seven rebounds and five assists, and keyed the crowd darlings’ run in the second half that wiped out a 12-point deficit and also sealed the club’s entry into the Final Four.
“First off, I’m totally shocked we’re able to beat them three straight games. Each game came, you know as a play here or a play there with a change in the whole complexion of the game,” said Ginebra coach Tim Cone.
READ: PBA: Ginebra rides on Justin Brownlee’s shoulders once again
Resident import Justin Brownlee had 23 points, Aguilar had 19 while rookie RJ Abarrientos and Ahanmisi both finished with 17. Scottie Thompson chipped in 16 more extending his prolific scoring run these playoffs despite a back problem that hampered him early into the tournament.
Allen Durham had 38 points and 13 rebounds, while Bong Quinto chipped in 19 points in the Bolts’ losing effort. Chris Newsome, Cliff Hodge and Chris Banchero all scored in double digits, their efforts continued to be futile against the Gin Kings, who have won seven of their meetings in the playoffs—including Monday night.
Barangay Ginebra battles the winner of the San Miguel and Converge duel which is being played as of posting time.