Gin Kings rally to take Game 5, move one win away from Finals

Brgy. Ginebra showcased a remarkable performance led by Christian Standhardinger, as they overcame a 15-point deficit to secure a thrilling 89-84 victory against Meralco at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Sunday.

With this win, Ginebra now holds a 3-2 advantage in the best-of-seven series of the PBA 48th Season Philippine Cup semifinals.

Standhardinger delivered an outstanding performance with 34 points, nine rebounds, and five assists, guiding the Gin Kings to take the series lead. The team has the opportunity to clinch the series and advance to the finals against San Miguel on Wednesday at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum.

After falling behind 59-44 in the third quarter, Ginebra staged a remarkable comeback and managed to reduce the deficit to just two points, 69-67, courtesy of a buzzer-beating three-pointer by LA Tenorio. The Gin Kings then surged ahead with a 9-0 run, fueled by Standhardinger’s clutch midrange jumpers, to take an 82-79 lead.

Despite Meralco’s efforts to level the score, key plays from Japeth Aguilar and Scottie Thompson allowed Ginebra to regain control of the game.

Following their dominant 90-71 victory in the previous game, Ginebra has now secured back-to-back wins in the series.

Maverick Ahanmisi contributed 13 points, five rebounds, and four assists, while Aguilar posted a double-double with 10 points and 12 rebounds.

Meralco, despite holding a 44-40 lead at halftime, failed to maintain their advantage as Ginebra mounted a resilient comeback.

Cliff Hodge’s strong performance gave the Bolts a 15-point lead, but Ginebra responded with a crucial 10-0 run to stay in the game.

Chris Banchero led Meralco with 18 points and six assists, while Chris Newsome added 17 points and six rebounds.

Meralco will now aim to force a Game Seven, which is set to be held on Friday in an out-of-town game in San Jose, Batangas.