Magnolia Hotshots Triumph over NLEX in PBA on Tour with Stellar Performances from Shock Troopers
Corpuz, known for his defensive prowess, showcased his rarely-seen offensive skills, leading the game with 19 points, including an impressive 3-of-4 shooting from beyond the arc. In addition, he significantly impacted the third quarter, contributing 12 points and helping Magnolia take control with a 30-14 exchange. Laput, the 6-foot-10 “project” player, recorded another double-double performance, tallying 18 points and 13 rebounds, earning him the Player of the Game honors.
The Hotshots also received significant contributions from their second-string players. Jerrick Ahanmisi, known for his long-range shooting, delivered 15 points from three-pointers. Meanwhile, Jed Mendoza added eight points to the scoreboard. Ahanmisi’s fifth three-pointer provided a crucial cushion for Magnolia, giving them a 91-78 lead with 6:48 remaining. Mendoza’s late three-pointer with 12 seconds left effectively sealed NLEX’s fate and extinguished their hopes of a comeback.
James Laput praised coach Chito Victolero for his belief in the players and their efforts, highlighting Victolero’s role in giving them opportunities to shine on the court. On the other side, Ben Adamos, NLEX’s trade acquisition from Phoenix, made an immediate impact in his debut, contributing 18 points, including an impressive 4-of-5 shooting from beyond the arc.
Unfortunately for NLEX, their struggles continued in the pre-season tilt as they fell to a winless 0-3 record. The Road Warriors fought hard, countering Magnolia’s early lead with three successive three-pointers to make it a close one-point contest after the first quarter. They carried their momentum into the second quarter, outscoring the Hotshots 28-19 and securing a halftime lead of 53-45. However, Magnolia’s third-quarter solid performance, ignited by Corpuz, enabled them to regain command and maintain their information until the end.
With this victory, the Magnolia Hotshots extended their winning streak and demonstrated their depth and resilience as they coped with the absence of key players. The team’s defensive-minded approach, combined with the unexpected offensive contributions from their shock troopers, bodes well for their upcoming games. Meanwhile, NLEX will look to regroup and adjust as they seek their first win in the pre-season tournament.
Scores
In an exciting matchup at the Baliwag Star Arena in Baliwag, Bulacan, the Magnolia Hotshots emerged victorious with a final score of 103-97 against the NLEX Road Warriors. This win marked the Hotshots’ third consecutive victory in the PBA on Tour.
The game started with Magnolia taking an early lead of 26-16, but the Road Warriors fought back with a series of three-pointers, narrowing the gap to just one point by the end of the first quarter. NLEX continued their momentum into the second quarter, outscoring the Hotshots and securing a halftime lead of 53-45.
However, in the third quarter, Magnolia turned the tide in their favor. Led by the impressive performance of Jackson Corpuz and James Laput, the Hotshots dominated the period with a 30-14 scoring run. Corpuz, known for his defensive skills, showcased his offensive prowess, contributing a game-high 19 points, including three three-pointers. Laput, a 6-foot-10 “project” player, recorded a double-double with 18 points and 13 rebounds.
The Hotshots maintained their lead throughout the final quarter, thanks to the contributions of second-string players Jerrick Ahanmisi and Jed Mendoza. Ahanmisi, known for his long-range shooting, delivered 15 points, all from three-pointers, while Mendoza added eight points to the scoreboard. Their stellar performances helped secure the victory for Magnolia.
Conclusion
Magnolia’s win against NLEX showcased the depth and resilience of their roster. Despite missing key players Ian Sangalang and Calvin Abueva, the Hotshots relied on their shock troopers, Jackson Corpuz and James Laput, to step up and deliver a combined 37 points. The team’s defensive-minded approach and the unexpected offensive outburst from Corpuz propelled them to a dominant third-quarter performance.
The contributions from second-string players Jerrick Ahanmisi and Jed Mendoza further solidified Magnolia’s victory. Ahanmisi’s clutch three-pointer in the fourth quarter provided a significant cushion, while Mendoza’s long-range shot extinguished any hopes of a late comeback from NLEX.
With this win, Magnolia extended their winning streak to three games in the PBA on Tour, displaying their resilience and adaptability even in the absence of key players. The Hotshots’ collective effort and the trust placed in them by coach Chito Victolero were critical factors in their success. On the other hand, NLEX’s debut of trade acquisition Ben Adamos, who contributed 18 points, was not enough to secure a victory for the struggling Road Warriors.
As the pre-season tilt continues, both teams will look to build on their performances and make adjustments for the challenges ahead.
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