Gin Kings cruise to 2-0 semis series lead over Batang Pier
Japeth Aguilar ignited the scoring for Barangay Ginebra with a spectacular one-handed slam dunk that set the tone for an electrifying performance from the seasoned forward.
Aguilar delivered a season-high 31-point explosion in a commanding 119-106 victory over NorthPort in Game 2 of their semifinals series, held at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City on Friday, Feb. 28.
The Gin Kings operated like a well-oiled machine, establishing a lead that ballooned to a staggering 35 points before weathering a spirited fourth-quarter rally from the Batang Pier. This decisive win propelled Ginebra to a commanding 2-0 advantage in the best-of-seven series.
In addition to his scoring prowess, Aguilar contributed eight rebounds, while five other Ginebra players also reached double figures. Jamie Malonzo appeared to be regaining his rhythm, scoring 17 points with the aid of three three-pointers, and Scottie Thompson added 16 points to the offensive onslaught. Justin Brownlee also chipped in with a double-double, notching 10 points and 11 assists, as Ginebra surged ahead with a significant 68-39 advantage by halftime.
The Kings extended their lead to an impressive 74-39 in the third quarter, showcasing their dominance and allowing head coach Tim Cone to utilize his bench extensively. However, the Batang Pier proved resilient, cutting the deficit to 15 points multiple times in the fourth quarter. Despite this surge, it was the closest they would come, prompting Cone to reinsert his starters to secure the win.
Mirroring their strategy from Game 1, Ginebra effectively contained Arvin Tolentino, limiting him to just 12 points. Meanwhile, Kadeem Jack delivered a strong performance with 27 points and 10 rebounds, and William Navarro added 23 points and 12 rebounds. Despite their efforts, the Batang Pier struggled to overcome the substantial gap in scoring.
The scores:
Barangay Ginebra 119 – J. Aguilar 31, Malonzo 17, Thompson 16, Rosario 11, Abarrientos 11, Brownlee 10, Ahanmisi 8, Holt 7, Gray 6, Pinto 2, Pessumal 0, R. Aguilar 0, Cu 0, Adamos 0, Mariano 0.
NorthPort 106 – Jack 27, Navarro 23, Munzon 14, Tolentino 12, Bulanadi 10, Nelle 6, Miranda 5, Yu 5, Taha 3, Onwubere 1, Flores 0, Cuntapay 0.
Quarterscores: 35-22, 68-39, 93-67, 119-106.
