PBA: Ginebra holds off Blackwater, goes 2-0

Prince Caperal carries Ginebra to latest win. PBA IMAGES

MANILA, Philippines—Barangay Ginebra joined a logjam atop the standings after holding off Blackwater’s rally for a 103-99 win in the PBA Philippine Cup Thursday at Angeles University Foundation.

The Gin Kings, Phoenix and TNT remained undefeated at 2-0.

After holding a 14-point lead, 51-37, at the start of the third quarter, the Gin Kings were subjected to a furious Elite run that saw them trail 75-76 heading into the fourth.

A couple of buckets from Jeff Chan gave Ginebra a 93-85 cushion with 5:30 left in the fourth and the Gin Kings managed to use that buffer to create some separation against the Elite.

“We know every game is tough, we’re still playing hard, getting up and down the floor and defending the best we can,” said Ginebra head coach Tim Cone. “We’re still trying to get a handle on our schemes and techniques because we haven’t done this for six months.”

“That stuff will come as we move forward and get a little bit more practice time.”

Prince Caperal, who largely played off the bench before, rose to the occasion with 24 points, on 5-of-7 shooting from deep, and six rebounds to lead the Gin Kings while Stanley Pringle had 17 points, seven rebounds, and five assists.

Scottie Thompson also had his fair share of stuffing with 14 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists.

Don Trollano led Blackwater with 23 points and 10 boards as the Elite dropped to 1-1.