The Magnolia Hotshots are off to a 2-0 start in the PBA Philippine Cup thanks to a 127-119 drubbing of a Calvin Abueva-less Titan Ultra Giant Risers. Zavier Lucero led the way, putting up 23 points and 17 rebounds spiked with 4 assists and 1 block. Ian Sangalang was sensational as well, going off for 21 points off the bench on top of 5 rebounds and 3 assists on 9-for-13 shooting.
Four other Hotshots finished in double figures, with Mark Barroca and Russell Escoto also coming off the bench and scoring 16 apiece and Javi Gomez de Liaño and Jerom Lastimosa contributing 14 and 13, respectively. In all, Magnolia shot a smoldering 63.2% from the field and recorded 34 assists, underscoring an offense firing on all cylinders.
In many ways, Magnolia dished out an impressive performance. But head coach LA Tenorio still found it lacking big time.
Tenorio Disappointed at Hotshots’ Defense
Even with the win, Tenorio was visibly disappointed at Magnolia’s defense against the Giant Risers as he spoke to reporters postgame about his team’s effort on that side of the ball.
“We gave up 56 points (in the first half), and now we gave up 60 plus in the second half. As much as we enjoy and be happy with this game, I don’t think this is our game. We gave up 119 points which is really a bad defensive game for us,” Tenorio told reporters.
That defense allowed Titan Ultra to shoot 43% from the field and let six Giant Risers finish in double digits, led by Joshua Munzon’s game-high 28, followed by 17 from Ato Ular, 14 from Jerrick Balanza, and 13 from Von Pessumal. Chris Koon and Damie Kuntapay added 12 and 10, respectively.
Tinyente Is Preaching Defense
Tenorio’s disappointment in Magnolia’s defense isn’t surprising, though, as Tinyente Tenorio is preaching good defense as the key to winning championships. He made this much clear after the Hotshots’ opening-day win over Barangay Ginebra San Miguel.
“Ang key talaga for winning and getting all the championships is playing defense,” Tenorio pointed out. “So, talagang ‘yun ang pini-preach ko sa kanila. We want to play defense if we want to get to the next level.”
On Friday, Magnolia’s defense wasn’t really next level, so forgive Tenorio for being unimpressed by it. After all, he wants to win a title for the franchise—and he knows full well defense will mean a whale of difference.
