Magnolia Hotshots forward Zav Lucero against Barangay Ginebra import Riley Grigsby in the PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup. PBA Images.
MANILA — Zav Lucero and KJ Buffen proved too much as the Magnolia Hotshots frustrated rival Barangay Ginebra San Miguel, 88-73, in the PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup on Sunday at the Araneta Coliseum in Cubao.
Lucero notched 24 points, 10 rebounds, two steals, and two assists, while Buffen finished with 23 points, 11 rebounds, and two steals as Magnolia notched its second win in five games.
"I take pride in my defense, as it’s our team’s best chance at winning," said Lucero, as Magnolia limited Ginebra to shooting just 27-of-70 (38.6%) from the field.
Ian Sangalang was also a force in the paint with 16 points and seven rebounds for the Hotshots, who found their footing in the second half to lead by as much as 20.
The veteran big man led Magnolia’s inside attack, with the Hotshots holding a 46-32 advantage in points in the paint while also outrebounding Ginebra, 46-34.
Meanwhile, this was Ginebra’s third loss in five outings.
Riley Grigsby was limited to 15 points on 5-of-19 shooting, while Stephen Holt led the Gin Kings with 17 points and five rebounds.
RJ Abarrientos also had a woeful night, scoring only six points on 2-of-9 shooting.
The Scores:
Magnolia 88 – Lucero 24, Buffen 23, Sangalang 16, Lastimosa 5, Koon 5, Alfaro 4, Barroca 4, Andrada 3, Dela Rosa 2, Gomez de Liano 2, Lee 0, Jopia 0.
Ginebra 73 – Holt 17, Grigsby 15, Rosario 9, J.Aguilar 7, Abarrientos 6, Abis 6, Cu 5, Pinto 4, Gray 4, Go 0.
Quarterscores: 25-24, 53-43, 75-57, 88-73.