Pringle-led Ginebra ends skid, tops Alaska

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MANILA, Philippines — Barangay Ginebra turned things around in the second half to beat Alaska, 87-81, and stop a two-game slide in the PBA Philippine Cup Tuesday night at AUF Sports Arena & Cultural Center in Angeles, Pampanga.

Stanley Pringle carried much of the offensive load for the Gin Kings with 31 points on 10-of-16 shooting from the field on top of six rebounds and a steal.

“We lost two straight so everybody was just hoping on bouncing back and coming out with a win,” Pringle said.

Coming off losses to Magnolia and Rain or Shine, Ginebra found itself in trouble in the first half when Alaska took a 13-point lead in the second quarter.

Fortunately for the Kings, their offense finally clicked in the third period before their defense held up late to keep the Aces at bay.

Ginebra sealed its fifth win in seven games after LA Tenorio hit a free throw followed by two more from Pringle in the final 10 seconds.

Scottie Thompson collected 11 points, 10 rebounds and six assists for Ginebra, which, despite a poor first half, managed to pull within six by halftime thanks to Pringle’s 20 points.

Vic Manuel had 17 points and six rebounds to lead Alaska (5-4), which saw its two-game winning streak snapped.