Rookie Maierhofer tows Giants to win over Elasto Painters

Rico Maierhofer, the newest kid on the block, is finding himself a room in the land of the Giants. Named as best player the last time Purefoods won big over Talk N Text, the rookie dished out yet another inspiring game, finishing with another double-double performance to tow the Giants to a one-sided 103-69 victory over one-hit-wonder Rain or Shine in the KFC-PBA Philippine Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.

Maierhofer, the second overall pick in this year’s draft, had 15 points and 10 rebounds to bring the energy back to the Giants team that has yet to pick up back-to-back wins this conference. The Giants, who improved to 4-3 record, have yet to win two straight games since last season’s Fiesta Conference. Their win-loss trend this season has kept the squad in the middle of the standings, at only fifth place. “The trend must be stopped," said Purefoods coach Ryan Gregorio. “We cannot live with a win-loss trend this conference. We need to develop an opening for that elusive winning streak and we hope this game will be the opening we’re waiting for." The Giants were coming off their worst beating this conference, a 76-92 loss to San Miguel, 76-92, but they vented their ire on the Elasto Painters, who after registering the biggest upset this conference - an 86-81 win over erstwhile unbeaten Alaska Milk - suddenly found themselves absorbing another sound beating. - GMANews.TV