Ginebra nails crucial win over Talk ’N Text

MArk Caguioa vs Jared Dillinger PBA IMAGE by Nuki Sabio

MANILA, Philippines—Mark Caguioa shot 22 points as Barangay Ginebra San Miguel took down Talk ‘N Text, 104-101, Sunday night in the 38th PBA Philippine Cup at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

The Kings picked up their second straight win to shake off a five-game slide for a 4-5 record.

“A few days ago, who would’ve thought about it? By the grace of God we were able to pull it off. We got a good game from the players,” said BGSM head coach Siot Tanquingcen.

Ginebra blew a double-digit lead but mustered enough strength to hold off a late run by Talk ‘N Text.

Trailing by as much as 13, 72-85, the Tropang Texters pulled to within three, 101-104, on a top-of-the-key triple by Larry Fonacier with 5.6 ticks left.

With a chance to seal the win, Rob Labagala came up empty at the line. Fortunately for the Kings, the rebound still ended up on their hands as time ran out.

LA Tenorio added 21 points while Rudy Hatfield had 12 points, 13 rebounds and four assists.

Caguioa, who also had 11 rebounds, sustained a cut on his left eyebrow after taking an inadvertent elbow from Ali Peek at the 2:22 mark of the first period.

Ranidel de Ocampo led TNT, which absorbed only its second setback in nine games, with 20 points and 10 boards.