WATCH: Paul Lee Highlights [Magnolia vs Rain or Shine | Feb. 22, 2023]
PBA Season 47 Governors' Cup
Magnolia extended its amazing winning streak to four by whipping Rain or Shine, 112-97, Wednesday night in the elimination round of the PBA Season 47 Governors’ Cup the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.
The Hotshot, who lost their first 3 matches, have now moved above .500 with a 4-3 record while the Elasto Painters, who were coming off back-to-back victories, absorbed their 5th defeat in 7 outings.
The Chito Victolero-mentored squad started out strong and took the opening period by 14, 33-19. They engaged their opponents in a nip-and-tuck affair for the next three quarters and held on to their 4th consecutive double-digit margin of victory. After losing to San Miguel by 2 points, the 2014 Grand Slam champs subdued Phoenix by 13, Brgy. Ginebra by 30, NLEX by 16, and now Rain or Shine by 15.
“Stay positive lang kami, we try to handle things positively and make sure to learn from our mistakes,” said Magnolia head coach Chito Victolero during the post-game press conference.
“When we feel good, doon nagsisimulang maging complacent at iyon ang lagi naming reminder. The mindset should be to work hard and battle for each possession,” he added.
Jio Jalalon, Paul Lee and Mark Barroca each dropped 19 points for the Hotshots while import Antonio Hester contributed 17 points, 15 rebounds, 5 assists and 2 steals. Russel Escoto stepped up in the absence of starting center Ian Sangalang and finished with 10 points and 8 boards in just 14 minutes of playing time.
Up next for Magnolia is Meralco. The two sides clash on Sunday, February 26, 6:45pm at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.