Magnolia overcame Calvin Abueva’s concerning departure to take down Blackwater, 118-100, to commence their PBA Season 49 Commissioner’s Cup campaign on a high note on Thursday night at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
The Hotshots lost their veteran forward during the second quarter following an accidental hit by opposing guard Sedrick Barefield and had to be rushed to the hospital, but managed to stay composed to take care of business.
“I just told them, let’s play for Calvin,” said head coach Chito Victolero, adding that the ‘Beast’ is set to be discharged from the Manila Doctors’ Hospital.
His wards did, coming out of the break hot as they jumped to a 61-46 lead before weathering a series of fightback attempts by the Bossing.
A mini run sparked by Paul Lee inside the last five minutes, which would push their lead to 114-91, all but sealed the deal for the perennial contenders.
Ricardo Ratliffe led Magnolia with 30 points, 18 rebounds, and five assists, giving himself a triumphant comeback as well after seven years.
Jerrick Ahanmisi had 21 points. Mark Barroca made 15 points and eight assists while Zav Lucero chipped in 13 markers and nine rebounds.
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Together, the Hotshots wasted the efforts of George King in leading Blackwater, which saw the prolific import finish with 42 points and 12 rebounds.
Barefield was his lone support with 24 points in the defeat.
