PBL: Strong start lifts Magnolia to easy win vs Hapee

MANILA, Philippines – Magnolia Purewater had a strong start then used a third-quarter breakaway in thrashing Hapee, 86-73, in the Philippine Basketball League (PBL) 2009 PG Flex Linoleum Cup Tuesday at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City. The Wizards returned to their winning ways after suffering from a heartbreaking 76-75 loss to Harbour Centre on November 20. They improved to 3-1 with the win. Magnolia followed up its strong first quarter start with a third-period breakaway where they built a 20-point spread, 70-50, entering the final 10 minutes of the game. Hapee, on the other hand, could not get its rhythm going and dropped to a 2-2 record. Neil Raneses led Magnolia’s attack scoring 10 of his 19 points in that pivotal third quarter run. He also had 10 rebounds, four assists and blocked one shot. Eder Saldua backed up Raneses with 13 markers behind a 5-of-5 shooting from the field. Jaypee Alcaraz and Al Magpayo had 12 points each. Big men Jervy Cruz and Roel Hugnatan paced the Complete Protectors, each scoring 14 points and also combined for 13 boards. Lance Convento had 13 markers, four caroms and four feeds while Jim Viray ended with 10. – GMANews.TV