Author: Bon Maddagan
Photo Credit: PBA Images
Brgy. Ginebra is now moving on to the best of seven semi-finals after taking down the Bolts on September 30. The Gin Kings used a strong fourth quarter to stay perfect and extinguished the Meralco’s hope of extending the series.
Stephen Holt Shines In Ginebra’s Victory
It was the total team effort from the Gin Kings but it was Stephen Holt’s consistent impact that made wonders for his team. Holt delivered an impressive all-around performance, finishing with 19 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists. Justin Brownlee also played a pivotal role in the win, contributing 23 points, while four other players scored 16 or more.
Meanwhile, Allen Durham continues to be a force for Meralco, finishing with 38 points and 13 rebounds. While Bong Quinto provided much-needed support with 19 points.
The Bolts played with much urgency tonight as evidenced by them dominating both the rebounding and fastbreak battle. Their aggression also allowed them to build a respectable 12-point lead at one point.
But the game took a major turnaround in the fourth. When Brownlee, all of a sudden, connected on two consecutive 4-point shots that narrowed the deficit to just 1 (89-88). Meralco still found ways to stay in control but a seven-point outburst by Rookie RJ Abarrientos turned the margin in his team’s favor. Ahanmisi and Holt both sank a three-pointer that extended their lead to a game-high of seven points (98-105). The Bolts were still in the game but failed to secure crucial rebounds down the stretch allowing Brgy. Ginebra ran away with the win.
The Scores :
- GINEBRA 113 – Brownlee 23, Holt 19, J.Aguilar 19, Abarrientos 17, Ahanmisi 17, Thompson 16, Devance 2, Cu 0, R.Aguilar 0, Pessumal 0
- MERALCO 106 – Durham 38, Quinto 19, Newsome 14, Banchero 10, Hodge 10, Caram 7, Bates 4, Rios 2, Mendoza 2, Pascual 0
- QUARTERS: 28-27, 47-56, 83-72, 113-106
