Magnolia revived its bid for a twice-to-beat advantage in the PBA Philippine Cup after defeating NLEX, 98-82, on Sunday at Ynares Sports Center in Montalban, Rizal.
The Hotshots improved to 6-3, tying the Road Warriors in fourth two days after absorbing a 114-97 loss at the hands of Converge.
‘We lost a tough one on Friday so we looked to bounce back today to put ourselves in contention for a twice-to-beat advantage,’Magnolia forward Zav Lucero said.
‘We’re playing for something bigger than just making the playoffs so we just came in focused.’
Lucero powered Magnolia with a double-double of 18 points and 12 rebounds that went with two steals and two blocks.
Rome Dela Rosa and Mark Barroca scored 14 and 12 points, respectively, while James Laput and Chris Koon added 11 each.
‘I reminded the whole team that we have to learn from the last game. We can’t allow a let down especially in these kinds of games,’ coach LA Tenorio said.
‘Every game is a playoff game. It’s tight in the standings,’ he added.
Robert Bolick struggled mightily in the Road Warriors loss, ending up with just 12 points, sinking only four of his 12 tries from the field.
Javee Mocon was also off target, converting just five of his 12 attempts for 12 points, eight rebounds and three assists.
Up next for the Hotshots are the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters on Monday next week at Khalifa Sports City Stadium in Bahrain.