PBA: Barangay Ginebra survives Magnolia as RJ Abarrientos delivers game-winner

Barangay Ginebra edged Magnolia, 91-89, overcoming a second-half rally as RJ Abarrientos drained the game-winning basket in their PBA Commissioner’s Cup clash on Friday at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Ginebra established control early, taking a 50-35 halftime lead. Magnolia responded with a strong third-quarter surge, outscoring the Gin Kings 31-19 to cut the deficit to 69-66. The game remained tightly contested down the stretch, with Justin Brownlee converting crucial free throws off a foul by Rome dela Rosa to give Ginebra an 89–86 advantage with 46 seconds remaining.

Abarrientos was then whistled for a foul on Mark Barroca during a three-point attempt with eight seconds left. Barroca calmly sank all three free throws to tie the game at 89.

Abarrientos then proved himself on the next possession, knocking down the go-ahead basket off an assist from Scottie Thompson. Magnolia still had a chance, but Norbert Torres missed his free throws following a foul by Barroca, allowing Ginebra to escape with the win.

Brownlee led the way for Ginebra with 29 points, nine rebounds, four assists, and a steal, while Thompson delivered an all-around performance with 24 points, 10 rebounds, three assists, and a steal. Abarrientos added 19 points.

For Magnolia, Zav Lucero posted 19 points and seven rebounds, while Clinton Chapman recorded a double-double with 18 points and 10 boards.

With the victory, Barangay Ginebra improved to 3–2, while Magnolia dropped to 4–2.

Scores:

Barangay Ginebra 91 – Brownlee 29, Thompson 24, Abarrientos 19, Holt 6, Torres 5, Pinto 4, Rosario 4, Cu 0, Gray 0, Go 0.

Magnolia 89 – Lucero 19, Chapman 18, Barroca 14, Lastimosa 11, Lee 10, Dela Rosa 9, Sangalang 5, Koon 3, Laput 0, Alfaro 0, Gomez de Liano 0, Andrada 0.

Quarters: 18-18, 50-35, 69-66, 91-89.

—JKC, GMA News