Magnolia continued its unbeaten run in the PBA On Tour by extinguishing the hot streak of NorthPort, 125-89, Friday night at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.
The Hotshots exploded for 32 points in the second quarter to establish a 53-41 lead at the break, and would never let up since on the way to ending the Batang Pier’s three-game winning streak for their sixth win in as many outings.
“I’m happy because we’re all committed to what we’re doing, to what we’re preparing for every game and every practice,” said head coach Chito Victolero.
Jerrick Ahanmisi shone the brightest in the win with a game-high 23 points, spiked by five three-pointers, alongside five rebounds.
Joseph Eriobu supplied a full line of 16 points, four rebounds, three assists, two steals, and a block for a plus-minus rating of 34 — highest in the game.
James Laput made 15 points and seven rebounds. Jackson Corpuz had 14 points and nine boards. Rome Dela Rosa and Jed Mendoza had 11 points apiece while Mark Barroca added 10 markers and eight assists.
“Masayang-masaya ako kasi committed talaga ‘yung mga players doon. We’re not relaxing. At the same time, we’re also enjoying, ‘yun ‘yung maganda right now,” said the champion bench tactician.
Arvin Tolentino. meanwhile, had 19 points to lead NorthPort, who absorbed its third loss in six outings.
JM Calma had 12 points, while Joshua Munzon and Kent Salado added 10 markers each for the Batang Pier.
The Scores:
Magnolia 125 – Ahanmisi 23, Eriobu 16, Laput 15, Corpuz 14, Dela Rosa 11, Mendoza 11, Barroca 10, Lee 8, Jalalon 8, Murrell 5, Reavis 4, Sangalang 0
NorthPort 89 – Tolentino 19, Calma 12, Munzon 10, Salado 10, Zamar 9, Yu 5, Ayaay 5, Santos 4, Olivario 3, Gabriel 3, Comboy 3, Bulawan 2, Gabriel 1, Bauzon 0, Balagasay 0, Sobrevega 0
Quarterscores: 21-21, 53-41, 83-64, 125-89.
