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‘Never-say-die’ spirit once again on display for the Gin Kings
Down by as many as 18 points, Barangay Ginebra San Miguel still managed to take Game 1 of the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup semifinals against the San Miguel Beermen, 73–71, on Wednesday night, June 25, at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Scottie Thompson was named Best Player of the Game after tallying 16 points on 6-of-9 shooting from the field, along with eight rebounds, one assist, and a steal.
Japeth Aguilar also provided steady production despite being in foul trouble, finishing with a team-high 18 points, nine rebounds, two assists, and a block. Jamie Malonzo added 14 points, five rebounds, three assists, and two steals.
Photo Courtesy: PBA
“This is our job naman talaga na pagpasok namin magbigay ng energy sa team,” said the 38-year-old Raymond Aguilar, who usually comes off the bench during 'garbage time.' “Medyo maagang na foul trouble si Japeth. Buti na lang nakapag step up tayo.”
The other Aguilar—Raymond—stepped up big when Japeth got into foul trouble, contributing six crucial points that helped spark the Gin Kings' rally. He also recorded a +13 in just eight and a half minutes of action.
“This is our job naman talaga na pagpasok namin magbigay ng energy sa team,” said the 38-year-old Raymond Aguilar, who usually comes off the bench during 'garbage time.' “Medyo maagang na foul trouble si Japeth. Buti na lang nakapag step up tayo.”
It was a rough start for Ginebra, as they surrendered the first quarter to the Beermen, 19–29. They managed to cut the deficit slightly by halftime, trailing 37–45.
In the third quarter, the Gin Kings trimmed the lead to just four, 56–60. Then, in the fourth and final frame, they seized a slim advantage and held on for the two-point win.
On the other side, San Miguel relied on CJ Perez, who led all scorers with 21 points, while adding seven rebounds and two assists.
Their main star, June Mar Fajardo, was held to just six points as he continues to nurse a calf injury. Still, the eight-time MVP showed heart, pulling down 19 rebounds and dishing out two assists. He finished with a +17 in 33 minutes of play.
In Game 2, will the Gin Kings take a commanding 2–0 lead, or will the Beermen bounce back to tie the series? We'll find out on Friday, June 27, at 5:00 PM at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
