Hotshots fall to Gin Kings in Easter Clasico

Brgy. Ginebra secured a decisive victory over Magnolia in the Easter Sunday Manila Clasico matchup, winning with a score of 87-77 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Seeking redemption after a tough loss to Meralco before the break, the Gin Kings displayed resilience and determination in the second half of the game, taking control of a closely contested battle against their longtime rivals.

In a remarkable display of dominance, Coach Tim Cone’s team unleashed a 19-5 scoring run over an eight-minute stretch spanning the third and fourth quarters, establishing a commanding 66-58 lead that paved the way for their impressive comeback and improved overall record of 3-1.

Notably, Brgy. Ginebra handed Magnolia their first defeat of the season, with the Hotshots previously coming off a strong 106-75 win over Converge on March 16.

Leading the charge for the crowd darlings was Japeth Aguilar, who stepped up in the absence of Scottie Thompson, contributing 16 points and nine rebounds.

Stanley Pringle also made a significant impact with 17 points, including three three-pointers. Key contributions from Maverick Ahanmisi (16 points), Jamie Malonzo (11 points), and Christian Standhardinger (11 points, 14 rebounds, seven assists) further bolstered the Gin Kings’ stellar performance.

On the other side, Ian Sangalang led the Hotshots with 17 points, but it was not enough to overcome Brgy. Ginebra’s dominant display.

This victory marked Brgy. Ginebra’s 100th win in the 35-year history of the storied Clasico rivalry. Magnolia, however, still holds the upperhand with 104 victories.

The scores:

Barangay Ginebra 87 – Pringle 17, Ahanmisi 16, J. Aguilar 16, Malonzo 11, Standhardinger 11, Onwubere 8, Tenorio 5, Pinto 3, David 0.

Magnolia 77 – Sangalang 17, Jalalon 15, Lee 12, Barroca 11, Tratter 10, Abueva 4, Corpuz 3, Mendoza 3, Laput 2, Ahanmisi 0, Reavis 0, Eriobu 0, Escoto 0.

Quarterscores: 17-18, 37-40, 60-56, 87-77.