Veteran guard LA Tenorio delivered when it mattered most, providing the leadership and clutch shooting that kept Barangay Ginebra San Miguel’s title hopes alive in the 49th PBA Philippine Cup.
In front of a roaring crowd at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, Tenorio drained the game-winning three-pointer with just 2.8 seconds remaining—off a timely dish from Scottie Thompson—lifting the Gin Kings to a dramatic 88-87 victory over the San Miguel Beermen in Game 6 of their best-of-seven semifinals series.
“Just like coach Tim Cone said, miracles do happen—not just in this game, but in my personal life as well,” said Tenorio, reflecting on the moment. “That’s why every time I’m on the court, I try to make things happen.”
Tenorio finished with 11 points—all scored in the fourth quarter—fueling Ginebra’s comeback and helping the team knot the series at 3-3.
“Miracles do happen,” echoed coach Tim Cone. “We were grasping for straws all night, trying to contain Junemar [Fajardo], especially with Japeth [Aguilar] cramping up most of the time.”
Game 7 is now set for a do-or-die clash on Wednesday at 7:30 p.m., once again at the Big Dome.
Scottie Thompson, who led Ginebra with a game-high 17 points, scored only two in the final quarter but made the crucial play by finding Tenorio for the decisive three.
On the other side, San Miguel leaned heavily on Junemar Fajardo, who posted 21 points and 16 rebounds. However, his missed free throw with 2:41 left allowed Ginebra to take an 85-84 lead—one they would protect until Tenorio’s final dagger.