Newcomer Jabari Bird made a powerful impact as the Magnolia Timplados Hotshots crushed Rain or Shine, 121-69, on Friday, tying their 49th Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Governors’ Cup quarterfinal series at 1-1.
Bird, a former Boston Celtics player, racked up 22 points and grabbed 13 rebounds in his Hotshots debut at the Sta. Rosa Multi-Purpose Complex in Laguna. The 30-year-old forward scored 13 of his points in the first half, helping Magnolia build an overwhelming 66-28 halftime lead by limiting the Elastopainters to just five points in the second quarter.
“He’s a big factor. It’s not just about the stats, but the positive aura and vibes he brings to the team,” said Hotshots head coach Chito Victoria, praising Bird’s immediate impact after being signed just before the game.
Calvin Abueva added 18 points, 10 rebounds, two assists, two steals, and a block, contributing to the team’s dominant performance
Game 3 will be on Sunday at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.
