The Magnolia Hotshots put on a strong defensive effort on Tuesday, clamping down on the Terrafirma Dyip to secure an 85-70 victory. It is the Hotshots’ second straight win after three losses to open the PBA Commissioner’s Cup. On the other hand, it is the Dyip’s second straight defeat after opening the midseason tourney with three wins.
What Happened?
Magnolia and Terrafirma engaged in a tight first half, with the former doing just enough to nudge ahead after one, 21-19, on the strength of 8 early points from Clint Chapman. The Dyip, though, took a 42-40 lead into intermission as the Ahanmisi brothers—Jerrick and Maverick—fired 18 in a 23-19 second quarter for Terrafirma.
The Hotshots then buckled down on defense in the second half, first holding Terrafirma to 14 points in the third quarter as they forced miss after miss after miss. Magnolia did much of the same in the fourth, holding down the Dyip to 14 as well en route to the 85-70 rout.
Who Stood Out?
Chapman was once again superb for Magnolia, starting them off with that strong first quarter and ultimately finishing with 28 points on top of 11 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal, and 3 blocks. The veteran particularly excelled on defense, helping limit Mubashar Ali to only 18 points.
Terrafirma, on the other hand, drew a solid outing from Jerrick Ahanmisi, who dropped 21 points with 4 rebounds and 4 assists despite just coming back from Singapore, where he played in the FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup.
3 Keys to the Game
- Defense. The Hotshots clamped down on the Dyip in the second half, swarming the Ahanmisi brothers and Ali, and forcing tough shot after tough shot. In the end, Magnolia held Terrafirma to a ghastly 34.2% from the field, and 28.6% from downtown, while forcing 15 turnovers.
- Turnover points. Magnolia also made sure to take advantage of those turnovers it was forcing, outscoring Terrafirma 23-7 off those giveaways.
- Starter play. Led by Chapman, Magnolia’s starting five vastly outplayed Terrafirma’s, outscoring them 62-32. Chapman’s game-high 28 led the way, with Zav Lucero adding 13, Rome Dela Rosa chipping in 11, and Jerom Lastimosa and Mark Barroca combining for 10 more.
Next Up for the PBA
Wednesday, April 8, 2026 | Ninoy Aquino Stadium
Blackwater Bossing vs. Titan Ultra Giant Risers (5:00 p.m.)
San Miguel Beermen vs. Rain or Shine Elasto Painters (7:30 p.m.)
