Once coming close to missing the 2018 Commissioner’s Cup quarterfinals, the Magnolia Hotshots are now just a game away as they rolled over the NLEX Road Warriors, 116-89, Wednesday night at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
The Hotshots have improved their card to an even 5-5, while the Road Warriors will be ending the mid-season conference with a 2-9 card.
“It’s all about yung desire namin,” said Magnolia head coach Chito Victolero. “We know that this is the game na gusto namin maipanalo for the playoffs. We have learned a lot from our mistakes back in the past.”
Returning import Wayne Chism showed his veteran wits as he led the Hotshots with 27 points, alongside eight rebounds, four assists, three blocks, and two steals. Paul Lee was in his element and provided 21 markers.
The Hotshots had a good start and were already leading by 16, 34-18, at the end of the first quarter. But the Road Warriors were able to claw back come the second frame. Down 11, NLEX closed within two, 37-39, after nine straight points.
The game turned tight, but it all changed in the final frame. Magnolia zoomed to an 18-3 to open the quarter and posted a 103-80 lead with six minutes left to play, which was more than enough to finish off NLEX.
Mark Barroca chipped in 15 points in the win. Aldrech Ramos had 11, while Jio Jalalon produced 10 points, eight assists, and six rebounds in 18 minutes.
Olu Ashaolu had made his NLEX debut and he was a silver lining in the loss, as he top-billed for the Road Warriors with 31 points and 12 rebounds. Ashaolu is the team’s reinforcement for the 2018 Governor’s Cup.
Mark Tallo had a career-high of 19 points, six rebounds, and three assists in the loss. Ronjay Buenafe had 12 points.
Magnolia will look to formalize their entry to the quarterfinals as they take on their long-time rivals and defending Commissioner’s Cup champs San Miguel Beermen this Saturday, July 7, 6:45 PM at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.
The Scores:
Magnolia 116 – Chism 27, Lee 21, Barroca 15, Ramos 11, Jalalon 10, Brondial 10, Sangalang 9, Mendoza 5, Melton 3, Reavis 2, Dela Rosa 2, Herndon 1, Simon 0, Abundo 0.
NLEX 89 – Ashaolu 31, Tallo 19, Buenafe 12, Quinahan 9, Ighalo 6, Soyud 6, Uyloan 3, Tiongson 2, Baguio 1, Marcelo 0, Monfort 0, Rios 0, Gotladera 0.
Quarterscores: 34-18, 54-40, 85-77, 116-89.
