Playoff rivals Ginebra and Meralco squared off for the first time in the PBA Season 49 Governors’ Cup.
Barangay Ginebra San Miguel hung tough for a 99-92 win over Meralco in Game 1 of the PBA Season 49 Governors’ Cup quarterfinals on Thursday, September 26.
Justin Brownlee finished with 29 points, including the two free throws with 27.2 left to play to seal the win for the Gin Kings.
He also had 12 rebounds, seven assists, and three steals on a night Joe Devance officially unretired and saw action for Ginebra.
Devance finished with two points in over six minutes of action, while Scottie Thompson had 19 points, five rebounds, and five assists.
“They’re a tough team. They challenge you throughout the whole game especially on the defensive end,” said Brownlee of their playoff rivals.
Cliff Hodge paced Meralco with 23 points and five boards, while Chris Newsome had 20 markers.
Game 2 is on Saturday, September 28, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.