PBA: Troy Rosario victorious in return to Ginebra

Barangay Ginebra Gin Kings’ Troy Rosario during a PBA Commissioner’s Cup semifinals game against NorthPort Batang Pier. –PBA IMAGES

MANILA, Philippines—Most of the Ginebra core was fatigued heading into Game 1 of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup semifinals against Northport.

Fortunately, Troy Rosario, who’s fully recovered from an ankle injury, stepped up to the plate and powered the Gin Kings to a 115-93 blowout of the Batang Pier.

Rosario, who was with Gilas Pilipinas in the last two weeks, didn’t get to see action for the national team due to his nagging ankle injury.

READ: Ginebra crushes Northport for 1-0 lead in PBA semifinals

The former Blackwater star, though, made sure to make it up to coach Tim Cone by giving Ginebra the first win in the best-of-seven semifinals series.

“[I’m] just so blessed to get some rehab during all those trips and really learn the triangle by watching each practice,” bared Rosario at Araneta Coliseum on Wednesday.

“We want to win this series and we’ll use our defense to do that too,” added Rosario.

READ: Latest Gilas call-up gives Troy Rosario a chance for redemption

Rosario finished with 16 points, eight rebounds and three assists in just 20 minutes of action, showing his efficiency for the Gin Kings.

The dynamic forward even admitted to being surprised with his outing, especially considering his two-week absence from five-on-five basketball.

“My game today was really surprising to me because my energy was there even if I didn’t get to practice for two weeks.”

“I’m just so happy we got to grind it out today.”

Rosario and the Gin Kings shoot for a pivotal 2-0 lead on Friday for Game 2 against the Batang Pier at Philsports Arena.