Hotshots build momentum for tough stretch with win over skidding Dyip
Coach LA Tenorio and Magnolia continued their winning ways with import Clint Chapman after pulling away from the once-hot Terrafirma, 85-70, on Tuesday.
Now at 2-3 (win-loss) and showing signs of a turnaround following three straight defeats to begin the PBA Commissioner’s Cup, the Hotshots turn their attention on a tough weekend slate that could possibly define their campaign.
Their two opponents will be their fellow San Miguel Corporation teams, with Barangay Ginebra first on Friday in the renewal of the Manila Clasico, and San Miguel Beer on Sunday.
“Yes it’s Manila Clasico, it’s bigger than any normal game,” Tenorio said after beating the Dyip at Ninoy Aquino Stadium. “But I’m not worried about that. My worry is about how we will play Friday, and then after Friday.”
For the Hotshots to get past their siblings, they hope to ride on the momentum built by the victory over the Dyip.
Quality minutes
Magnolia banked on its defense to make things difficult for two of Terrafirma’s main men, Jerrick Ahanmisi and import Mubashar Ali.
Ahanmisi scored 21 points but made just seven of his 20 attempts while Ali had 18 on a 7-for-18 clip.
While Chapman led the charge for Magnolia with 28 points, 11 rebounds, three assists and two blocks, there were a variety of players who stepped up.
Zavier Lucero, Rome dela Rosa, Mark Barroca, Paul Lee and Ian Sangalang were key on both ends while Tenorio even got some quality minutes from Raffy Verano and Russel Escoto during their short appearances in between the third and fourth when Magnolia took control.
“Our goal was really to lower their scoring output,” Tenorio said. “We really challenged ourselves to maintain or limit them to their average. But I didn’t expect that we would limit them to 70 points.”
Terrafirma has dropped to 3-2 with a second straight loss.
Meanwhile, the PBA is making an advanced treat for fans ahead of its 51st anniversary with tickets for Wednesday’s doubleheader free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis at the same Ninoy venue.
Lowly teams Blackwater and Titan Ultra square off at 5:15 p.m. before Rain or Shine stakes its 4-0 record against San Miguel.
