MANILA, Philippines－ The Barangay Ginebra Gin Kings strengthened their bid for a top two placement in the 2017 PBA Commissioner’s Cup as they overpowered the Blackwater Elite, 96-82, on Friday, May 26 at the Alonte Sports Arena in Biñan, Laguna.
Justin Brownlee poured out a team-high 35 markers coupled with 14 boards for the Gin Kings, who turned the ball over 23 times in the match.
LA Tenorio added 17 markers and 5 assists, while Japeth Aguilar had 15.
Sol Mercado likewise contributed 9 points, 7 boards and 6 assists.
The Elite held the lead for most of the 3rd quarter, with Mike DiGregorio launching back-to-back triples to provide his team with a 49-43 advantage. But Blackwater couldn’t finish off as the squad lost its offensive spark in the closing period, and was outscored by Ginebra 31-20.
Greg Smith topscored for the Elite with 37 points to go with 19 rebounds and 5 assists, while DiGregorio finished with 18.
The Gin Kings will need to survive crucial matches against the Meralco Bolts as well as the Mahindra Floodbuster to secure a twice-to-beat advantage come the quarterfinals.
Blackwater, on the other hand, dropped to a 2-8 slate and is now formally eliminated from playoff contention.－Rappler.com
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