Author: Bon Maddagan
Photo Credit: PBA Images
The Gin Kings secured their first back-to-back wins of the conference on September 6, thanks in large part to veteran big man Japeth Aguilar’s standout performance.
No one in the Phoenix LPG Fuel Masters’ roster could contain him as he finished with 31 big points on an impressive 11/13 shooting to go along with 4 rebounds. But he didn’t do everything alone. Justin Brownlee was instrumental as usual, as he registered a triple-double with 23 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists. Star guard Stephen Holt was very effective on both sides of the floor. He finished with 19 but more importantly, gave the opposing import a very hard time. While Rookie Abarrientos continued his strong play, chipping in 16.
Meanwhile, for Phoenix, Brandone Francis led them with another solid all-around game. He had 33 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. RR Garcia had 17 from the bench while Jason Perkins provided 13.
Ahanmisi’s Three Extends Ginebra’s Lead, RR Garcia Sparks Phoenix Comeback
Ginebra played really well throughout the game. They continued to share the ball well and play impressive defense. They were in full control, particularly at the start of the third quarter when Maverick Ahanmisi’s three-pointer extended their lead to 20 points. However, the momentum shifted when RR Garcia entered the game. The veteran guard injected much-needed energy, quickly scoring 12 points with a pair of four-pointers and a number of lay-ups to inspire a 14-0 fightback. He was joined by Brandone Francis, who helped bring the lead down to a mere point (74-73). The Gin Kings, though, weathered the storm, making crucial plays down the stretch and regaining control. Stephen Holt’s four-pointer at the end of the third quarter brings their lead back to 12 points (87-75).
Though the Fuel Masters kept the game close in the fourth, the Gin Kings were able to hold their ground and improved their position to 3-2.
The Scores :
- GINEBRA 110 – Aguilar 31, Brownlee 23, Holt 19, Abarrientos 16, Thompson 9, Ahanmisi 7, Tenorio 3, Go 2, Cu 0, Pinto 0, Garcia 0, Adamos 0, Mariano 0
- PHOENIX 101 – Francis 33, Garcia 17, Perkins 13, Mocon 8, Tio 7, Rivero 7, Muyang 5, Jazul 3, Ballungay 2, Manganti 2, Verano 2, Daves 2, Alejandro 0, Salado 0, Tuffin 0
- QUARTERS: 24-25, 57-46, 87-75, 110-101
