Magnolia def NorthPort, 105-94 [PBA S49 Govs’ Cup | Sep. 4, 2024]

Magnolia and NorthPort are both aiming for a 3-2 win-loss record at the halfway point of the PBA Governors’ Cup eliminations as they face off in an exciting clash at the Smart Araneta Coliseum this Wednesday at 7:30 p.m.

This matchup will determine whether one team climbs above the .500 mark while the other slips below, as both the Hotshots and the Batang Pier engage in their first encounter in Group A, alongside TNT Tropang Giga, Meralco, Converge, and Terrafirma.

After a double-round elimination format within the group, the top four teams will advance to the crossover quarterfinals, where they’ll compete against the leading four from the other bracket, currently topped by Rain or Shine at an impressive 4-0.

In their recent outings, the Hotshots delivered a commanding performance against the Dyip, winning 124-103, while the Batang Pier suffered a setback, losing 99-109 to the Bolts. As a result, Magnolia and NorthPort currently share the third to fifth spots in the standings with Converge, all holding a 2-2 record, trailing behind joint leaders TNT and Meralco, both at 3-1.

Coach Chito Victolero’s Hotshots have experienced a rollercoaster season, while Coach Bonnie Tan’s Batang Pier faced a bump in the road after a brief winning streak.

Both teams’ success extends beyond their imports.

Arvin Tolentino has emerged as a key player in NorthPort’s victories over Terrafirma (112-93) and Converge (135-109), showcasing his talent with near triple-double performances against the Dyip and an explosive PBA decade-high 51 points against the FiberXers.

Meanwhile, Jerrick Ahanmisi put on a dazzling display for the Hotshots, sinking four four-pointers and two three-pointers during their emphatic 21-point victory over the Dyip.

Moreover, Magnolia’s Glenn Robinson III and NorthPort’s Venky Jois have delivered crucial contributions in their respective roles.

However, it’s evident that Jois could significantly enhance his team’s prospects by stepping up his production in this high-stakes encounter.