Joshua Munzon delivered the big hits as NorthPort beat Ginebra in the PBA Commissioner's Cup, a first for the Batang Pier over the Gin Kings since 2019.
A resilient Joshua Munzon returned from cramps to deliver clutch plays, typifying the grit and determination of the NorthPort Batang Pier in their breakthrough 119-116 upset over Ginebra in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup last January 8.
Munzon, subbing in for the fouled-out Arvin Tolentino, drained a crucial three-pointer to give NorthPort a 117-109 cushion with just over a minute remaining.
Despite Ginebra’s late surge, Munzon sealed the win with a split at the line, snapping the Batang Pier’s 14-game losing streak against the Gin Kings dating back to 2019.
“He’s a fighter. He wanted to go back and finish the game,” said NorthPort coach Bonnie Tan of Munzon, who tallied 27 points, six assists, and two steals.
Munzon’s efforts complemented the dominant performances of import Kadeem Jack (32 points, 16 rebounds) and Tolentino before his exit (29 points).
The victory solidified NorthPort’s place atop the standings with a 7-1 record, and earned Munzon the nod as the first PBA Press Corps-Pilipinas Live Player of the Week for 2025.
It’s also Munzon’s second PoW citation for the ongoing Commissioner’s Cup.
Reflecting on the win, Munzon credited the team’s growth shown this conference.
“We’ve learned to close out tight games and stick together. It’s fun to be out there when the game goes back and forth like that. That’s what we love to do.”
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[Editor's note: This article was generated by a member of the One Sports Digital team using AI, and then checked by the staff to ensure accuracy.]