Magnolia survives another Phoenix uprising, sets up PBA Finals duel vs. San Miguel

Magnolia could not be denied this time around, extinguishing a gallant stand from Phoenix Super LPG, 89-79, to advance to the finals of the PBA Season 48 Commissioner's Cup on Wednesday at the Mall of Asia Arena.

The Hotshots will take on sister team San Miguel in a best-of-seven championship round in bid to take their first title since 2018.

Seasoned guard Mark Barroca, who was placed in a starter role in this game, paced Magnolia with 21 points built on four three-pointers alongside four rebounds and five assists. Tyler Bey, meanwhile, put together a huge double-double of 20 markers and 20 boards on top of four dimes, two steals, and a block.

Similar to the previous game, Magnolia was able to lead by double-digits early only for the Fuel Masters to catch up.

But the Hotshots had the answers tonight.

After trailing by 17 in the first half, Phoenix rallied in the third with veteran RJ Jazul sinking a floater that cut their deficit to just two, 53-51, halfway through the frame.

But the Hotshots had a huge response, responding with a 15-0 run to again establish a 68-51 cushion before heading to the fourth enjoying a 70-53 advantage.

Sean Manganti's triple late in the fourth once again sliced the gap to 10 before back-to-back baskets from import Johnathan Williams and a Tyler Tio fastbreak in the final 2:38 kept youthful Phoenix within striking distance at 83-74.

The Hotshots' composure was on full display in the endgame as Ian Sangalang scored on a layup and Bey's putback attempt went through as Magnolia took an 87-76 lead with 1:28 to go.

—Bea Micaller/JMB, GMA Integrated News