Lee scores 30 as Hotshots overwhelm Aces

Calvin Abueva of Alaska forces his shot against Ian Sangalang of Magnolia Hotshots during their game in the 43rd PBA Philippine Cup in San Juan Arena on Wednesday.PHOTO BY KC Cruz

The Magnolia Hotshots leaned on a strong second quarter to defeat the Alaska Aces, 108-95, on Wednesday at the San Juan Arena.

Paul Lee came up big off the bench, scoring 30 points with seven rebounds and six assists in just 24 minutes of play.

Bam Gamalinda led the starters with 15 markers, while Ian Sangalang and Rome Dela Rosa rounded up the Hotshots in double figures with 13 and 10 points, respectively.

The Aces spent most of the game trying to chip away at the double digit lead, as Simon Enciso and Calvin Abueva trimmed the deficit to just eight heading into the final two minutes, 103-95.

Alaska, however, failed to connect off attempts from Jayvee Casio and Abueva, as the team was held scoreless until the final buzzer.

Vic Manuel and Calvin Abueva took turns in trying to carry the Aces, scoring 20 points each while combining for 23 rebounds.

Jayvee Casio also added 10 points, while rookie Jeron Teng scored 16 thanks to an 8 of 9 clip from the line. — BAP, GMA News