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 enabled the crowd darlings to 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.
In the Zoom Masters’ dominant 155-108 conquest of the Hotshots, the ‘Point Laureate’ finished with 32 points, 13 rebounds, and 18 assists.
But for over 30 years, nobody would be able to notch at least a 30-10-10 outing until the 2022 MVP did, in the process chalking up his 11th career triple-double–and his second in these playoffs alone after netting one during the quarters.
(C) PBA Images
It was, furthermore, the first time ever that Thompson scored 30 points in a PBA game, thus spelling the difference in Game 4 as his assertiveness on offense undeniably 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.”
