The Hotshots almost squandered a double-digit lead, but did enough to chalk up the win.
The Magnolia Chicken Timplados Hotshots raced off to a hot start, sputtered late, and then managed to hold on for a win over the Phoenix Super LPG Fuel Masters, 82-78, in Game 2 of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup semifinals on Friday.
The Hotshots now hold a commanding 2-0 edge in the best-of-five series, with a chance to book a Finals ticket in Game 3 on Sunday.
Magnolia overhauled a five-point deficit late behind Paul Lee and Tyler Bey, whose assist to James Laput led to a three-point play that tied the game at 76-all.
They didn’t stop there.
Bey drove baseline against Jayvee Mocon for an easy two before Lee hit a dagger of a three-pointer with 55.4 ticks left for an 81-76 lead they never relinquished.
Bey finished with 25 points, 12 rebounds, and an assist, while Jio Jalalon wound up with 17 points, six rebounds, and three assists.
Rome dela Rosa had nine points, while Mark Barroca and Calvin Abueva combined for 16 markers.
“We’re outhustled by Phoenix in the first 44 minutes. We just matched their energy and aggressiveness in the last four minutes,” said Magnolia coach Chito Victolero.
“Nakalusot kami sa game na ‘to. It’s an ugly win but we’ll take it.”
Johnathan Williams tried to will his team back, scoring on a hook to close in, 81-78. But the Fuel Masters just ran out of gas.
The lanky reinforcement ended up with 27 points, 16 rebounds, five assists, a steal, and two blocks, but his efforts just weren’t enough to help Phoenix get over the hump. The Fuel Masters have now lost 10 straight games to Magnolia dating back to 2021.
Jason Perkins had 17 points, including the back-to-back baskets that allowed the Fuel Masters to take a 74-71 lead. He also had 13 boards and four dimes.