PBA Finals: Tim Cone praises Stephen Holt after Game 3 breakout

Barangay Ginebra Gin Kings’ Stephen Holt during Game 3 vs TNT Tropang 5G in the 2026 PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals. –PBA IMAGES

MANILA, Philippines—Barangay Ginebra coach Tim Cone has heard the online noise surrounding Stephen Holt.

Expected to be a scorer, Holt struggled offensively in the first two games of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals, drawing jeers on social media.

That was far from the case in Game 3.

So when Holt finally found his rhythm, Cone was quick to give him credit.

“There’s a lot of noise on the internet about him not playing well but he’s been playing great,” said Cone after their 116-102 win at Mall of Asia Arena on Sunday. “He’s a lot more than just being a scorer and he impacts winning in so many things that he does.”

Barangay Ginebra’s Justin Brownlee and coach Tim Cone after the Game 3 win. #PBAFinals | @MeloFuertesINQ pic.twitter.com/bjB0R8wXh5

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“He’s the kind of guy who looks at the game and sees what he needs to contribute.”

In the win that gave the Gin Kings a 2-1 series lead, Holt finished with 23 points–15 coming in the first quarter as Ginebra raced to a 35-16 lead.

For comparison, Holt scored just one point in Game 2 and was held scoreless in the series opener.

Justin Brownlee, who had 41 points, seven rebounds and seven assists in the win, also lauded Holt’s hot start.

“This’ll boost his confidence,” said the Gin Kings’ resident import. “Going forward, hopefully, we can find that momentum with him.”

Ginebra shoots for a 3-1 lead on Wednesday for Game 4 at the same venue.