Magnolia continued to gain steam as it notched its second straight victory at the expense of Columbian, 110-103, improving its run in the 2019 Philippine Basketball Association Commissioner’s Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum last night.
James Far registered a double-double with 22 points and 11 rebounds while Ian Sangalang likewise had the same scoring output with eight boards as the two paced the Hotshots.
Paul Lee wasn’t far behind, scattering 21 points for more production.
The win improved Magnolia to 2-2 while Columbian dropped to a 1-4 card.
The Hotshots orchestrated a 15-0 outburst in the middle of the third to gain significant separation.
Farr’s lay-up gave them a 76-62 spread at the 4:36 mark of the quarter for control of the contest.
Keeping its foot on the gas pedal the rest of the way, Magnolia closed out well in the fourth, keeping its distance before finally securing victory.
Jio Jalalon also had an outstanding game for Magnolia, flirting with a triple-double with 17 points, 12 boards and seven dimes.
Magnolia already built a 34-28 advantage at the end of one.
Columbian struck back in the second frame, tying it at 52-apiece at the half. Lester Prosper led all scorers with a game-high 26 points and 14 rebounds for Columbian.
The Dyip was actually fighting tooth and nail with the Hotshots until the latter broke away late in the third.
As of this report, Barangay Ginebra (2-3) and San Miguel Beer (1-2) are figuring in a heated sibling battle to see who climbs the ladder.
The Gin Kings and the Beermen, the last two winners of the tournament, are currently struggling to find consistency to start their campaigns.
The scores:
Magnolia Hotshots Pambansang Manok 110 – James Farr 22, Ian Sangalang 22, Paul Lee 21, Jio Jalalon 17, Marc Barroca 9, Rodney Brondial 8, Justin Melton 3, Robbie Herndon 2, Rome Dela Rosa 2, Aldrech Ramos 2, Kyle Pascual 0.
Columbian Dyip 103 – Lester Prosper 26, CJ Perez 18, Rashawn McCarthy 11, Jack Corpuz 10, JP Calvo 6, Rusell Escoto 4, Reden Celda 4, Andreas Cahilig 3, Eric Camson 3, JayR Reyes 2, Jerramy King 2, Bryan Faundo 0.
Quarter scores: 34-28, 52-52, 85-74, 110-103.