It took nearly four decades for the PBA to witness another 30-point triple-double.
That happened on Sunday night when Scottie Thompson tallied 35 points, 11 rebounds, and 11 assists to power Ginebra past San Miguel in Game 4 of the Season 50 Philippine Cup semifinals, leaving Coach Tim Cone amazed.
“Let me just say, it was a legendary performance,” the league’s most successful mentor offered shortly after their 105-91 victory at the Mall of Asia Arena, which let the crowd darlings tie the best-of-7 series to two games apiece.
According to PBA chief statistician Fidel Mangonon III, the last time that such a statistical feat was accomplished was 33 years ago, when Ronnie Magsanoc headlined Shell’s victory over Pepsi during the 1990 All-Filipino Conference.
The most recent by a local talent was 33 years ago, courtesy of Johnny Abarrientos for an Alaska side also mentored by Cone.
A rookie Abarrientos dropped 30 points, 15 rebounds and 14 assists, but the Milkmen lost to Swift, 115-103, on April 11 in the 1993 All-Filipino Conference.
Since then, nobody has notched at least a 30-10-10 outing until the 2022 MVP. He also chalked up his 11th career triple-double, which was also his second in these playoffs alone after netting one during the quarters.
(C) PBA Images
It was, furthermore, the first time that Thompson scored 30 points in a PBA game, which made the difference in Game 4 as his assertiveness on offense caused major challenges to the Beermen’s defensive ploy.
“I think we’re gonna remember this one for a long time,” Cone said.
“I think he came out and he was more aggressive tonight, he was looking for things. And I think the more he became a threat, the more he was able to open up lanes for him to make passes as well.”
Asked if submitting such a splendid performance every night could be what they need to give themselves a chance in the series, Thompson didn’t deny that he’d be glad to do so, but is under no illusion that it would be as feasible.
“Every game is different,” the 32-year-old said.
“Hopefully, ‘no. Same approach, but mas maganda mas mahigitan pa. But it’s hard to play the same game every time,” he added.
“Every game is different but yung intensity, yung approach namin every game should be better.”
