PBA: Jansen Rios shows worth for Meralco in Game 2 win vs Ginebra
Meralco Bolts’ Jansen Rios during Game 2 of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup against Barangay Ginebra Gin Kings. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines—With their backs against the walls in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup quarterfinals, the Meralco Bolts turned to Jansen Rios and he promptly delivered.
Rios helped pace Meralco to a 108-104 victory over the Barangay Ginebra Gin Kings in Game 2 of, pushing the best-of-three decider to a sudden death Game 3.
READ: PBA: Meralco beats Ginebra to extend quarterfinals series
“All I think about when coach puts me in the game is to be ready because you never know when [you’ll be given a chance again],” said Rios.
“You’re not always going to be given an opportunity so when you do, you have to grab it especially if you’ve been working hard for it.”
Meralco Bolts during the PBA Commissioner’s Cup quarterfinals game 2 against Barangay Ginebra Gin Kings. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
Coming off the bench, Rios tallied 15 points, two rebounds, an assist and a steal to fuel Meralco’s bid against a pesky Ginebra side led by Justin Brownlee.
The spark plug of the Meralco’s second unit registered an efficient 75 percent shooting clip, going 6-of-8 from the field in 25 minutes of action.
SCHEDULE: 2024-2025 PBA Commissioner’s Cup quarterfinals
While the Bolts as a whole enjoyed Rios’ heroics, no one was prouder than coach Luigi Trillo, who has seen the swingman’s commendable work ethic first hand.
“Jansen has a good story,” said Trillo.
“I’m happy for him, he’s come a long way. When we walk into the gym, he’s one of the first guys there shooting, two or three hours before [our] call time.
The Bolts look to have Rios’ impact once more on Sunday when they play do-or-die with Ginebra in Game 3 of the quarters at Ynares Sports Center in Antipolo.
