Magnolia remains unbeaten since the PBA On Tour.
For a team that takes pride in ball movement and defense, the Magnolia Hotshots uncharacteristically didn’t move the rock as well as they usually do on Sunday.
Still, the Hotshots continued their red-hot streak with a 107-92 win over Phoenix Fuel Masters in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup.
“Siguro we have a lot of 1-on-1 plays that create mismatches, so hindi kami masyado nakaikot ng bola. But a win is a win. Kahit two assists pa ‘yan,” said coach Chito Victolero.
Magnolia only had 15 assists, eight of which came from Mark Barroca, who also finished with 15 points, including some of the key baskets in the end game.
Good thing Tyler Bey turned in another monster performance with 32 points and 16 rebounds. Jio Jalalon added 20 points built on three three-pointers to go with eight rebounds, three assists, and the same number of steals.
But Victolero said they shouldn’t veer away from ball movement like they did on Sunday if they want to make a deep run into the playoffs this conference.
“But we need to increase our assists. Target is about 25 to 30. That’s our system," Victolero said.
Magnolia has remained unbeaten since the PBA On Tour and has beaten Phoenix eight times since the 2021 season.
The Hotshots will stake their immaculate record on Friday against the NorthPort Batang Pier. Game time is set at 4 p.m. at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
(MDB)