The Magnolia Hotshots have clinched a twice-to-beat advantage for the 2018 PBA Governors’ Cup quarterfinals, as they scored a 116-103 victory over the TNT KaTropa, Friday night at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.
The Hotshots now sit atop the standings with an 8-2 card.
“We were committed to our game plan, we were committed to our defense, and credit also to our execution on offense. Lahat ng ginawa namin sa four days na preparation nagawa namin,” said Magnolia head coach Chito Victolero.
6-foot-7 slotman Ian Sangalang had a career-high performance of 28 points on 13-of-19 field goal shooting, alongside six rebounds, two blocks, and an assist in the 26 minutes and 50 seconds he graced the hardwood.
“We know naman Ian can step up every time andyan siya,” said Victolero.
Magnolia started to gain control of the match in the second frame, turning a narrow four-point lead to 14, 62-48, at the half thanks to a 10-0 rally. They would go on to lead by as many as 18, 106-88, with six minutes left to play.
Mark Barroca produced 21 points in the victory. Paul Lee chimed in a near triple-double with 19 points, eight rebounds, and eight assists, while import Romeo Travis provided 18 markers, 15 caroms, and seven dimes.
“‘Di na ‘ko mahihirapan magmotivate sa players ko, Manila Clasico eh,” Victolero said.
Terrence Romeo led the KaTropa with 23 points. Troy Rosario had 21 points, while leader Jayson Castro — who has returned to the fold after recovering from bone spur removal in his foot — chipped in 13 markers and five assists.
Former Magnolia resident import Marqus Blakely had 17 points, 18 rebounds, and 11 assists.
The Hotshots must move on from tonight’s win as they set their sights on the Barangay Ginebra San Miguel on Sunday, October 28, in the match dubbed as the Manila Clasico. Ginebra are currently in second at 7-2. The KaTropa – who are now down to 4-6 but are still in playoff contention – will also battle Ginebra at Araneta on November 4, Sunday.
The Scores:
Magnolia 116 – Sangalang 28, Barroca 21, Lee 19, Travis 18, Melton 9, Jalalon 9, Reavis 4, Brondial 4, Dela Rosa 2, Herndon 2.
TNT 103 – Romeo 23, Rosario 21, Blakely 17, Castro 13, Cruz 8, Trollano 7, Pogoy 6, Carey 4, Williams 4, Golla 0, Garcia 0, Reyes 0.
Quarterscores: 33-30, 62-48, 89-78, 116-103
