It still felt weird for Paul Lee to not see any fans in attendance when another chapter of the Manila Clasico was written Sunday at the Ynares Sports Arena.
The Magnolia-Ginebra rivalry remains one of the highly anticipated matches every PBA season. But the ball clubs’ supporters can only wait until they can again troop to the venue to watch live.
This, as the league continues to play games with zero spectators due to the ongoing novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
“Siyempre nakakapanibago kapag wala ‘yung mga fans natin,” Lee expressed moments after the Hotshots’ 89-79 conquest of the Gin Kings.
This marked the second time in a row that a Clasico took place without fans. The first one was in the secluded Philippine Cup bubble in Clark last year, where Magnolia also reigned victorious with a 102-92 decision.
This year’s edition would have definitely drawn a huge crowd, since it featured two new faces who will add more flair to the rivalry in years to come.
The Hotshots have Calvin Abueva in tow, while the reigning champions have Christian Standhardinger in their arsenal. The former BPCs arrived to their new teams via blockbuster trades during the offseason.
Both players made a good account of themselves in their first Clasico. Abueva made 15 points and nine rebounds in a turnover-less performance. Meanwhile, Standhardinger finished with 13 markers and 11 boards.
As much as he would want fans around, Lee understands that times are different. For him, what’s important is that basketball is back.
“Wala tayong magagawa roon. ‘Di na natin control ‘yun,” said the 32-year-old guard, who had 22 points to lead Magnolia to their third win in as many games.
“Pero ang importante, nakabalik ang PBA at nakapaglaro ulit kami.”
