Magnolia def Brgy. Ginebra, 96-95 [SF Game 2 | Season 47 Comm’s Cup | Dec. 16, 2022]

A mere escape by a full-crew Barangay Ginebra versus a Magnolia side hit by the ejection of import Nick Rakocevic hints at bigger thrill and excitement in the continuation of the Manila Clasico semis matchup.

And eyes will not just be on the comebacking Rakocevic but also on Justin Brownlee as they’re expected to flex their muscles harder in similar bids to lead their squads in Game 2 at 3 p.m. Friday at the PhilSports Arena.

“In Game 2, we’re going to see a lot of more. We’re going to see a motivated Rakocevic come back so we’re going to have to brace ourselves for that,” said Ginebra coach Tim Cone.

Rakocevic was limited to playing 20 minutes where he logged 10 points and eight rebounds Wednesday night as he was banished from the court for a technical foul and a flagrant foul penalty 1.

Brownlee, on the other hand, played a little over 46 minutes but struggled with just seven field-goal attempts, finishing with 11 markers and 13 boards against seven turnovers.

Cone noted the shackling defense put up by the Hotshots that made things tough not just on Brownlee but the whole team.

Nonetheless, the Kings found a way to get on top in the end, squeezing out an 87-84 victory.