Ginebra holds off Magnolia to take Game 1 of semis series

Barangay Ginebra took advantage of an import-less Magnolia late to eke out an 87-84 win in Game 1 of their best-of-five semifinals series in the 2022 PBA Commissioner's Cup on Wednesday at the PhilSports Arena.

Ginebra now holds a 1-0 series advantage as Magnolia was forced to play without reinforcement Nicholas Rakocevic who was ejected from the court with 6:31 left in the third period. The Hotshots played with an all-Filipino roster all the way. 

Jamie Malonzo starred for the Gin Kings with 21 points, 12 rebounds, three steals, and an assist while Scottie Thompson chipped in 16 markers and six dimes. Justin Brownlee collected 11 points and 13 rebounds in the win. 

Christian Standhardinger grabbed 14 points and six rebounds. 

Prior to his exit, Rakocevic had 10 points, eight rebounds, two assists, and two steals while Paul Lee knocked down 21 markers, two rebounds, and two dimes.

—JMB, GMA Integrated News