Ginebra now 2-0 vs. TNT in PBA Finals

By Ivan Stewart Saldajeno  

MANILA (Philippines News Agency)– Barangay Ginebra zoomed to a 2-0 lead in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Finals after subduing the TNT Tropang Giga, 92-90, in Game 2 of their championship series on Wednesday night at the Angeles University Foundation Sports and Cultural Center in Pampanga.

Scottie Thompson, who sent Ginebra to the finals with a game-winning triple in Game 5 of its semifinal clash with Meralco Bolts, dropped another go-ahead three-pointer with 30 seconds left to eventually give his team the win.

The trey highlighted the game-deciding 13-1 run that completed the Barangay’s comeback from a seven-point deficit with a little over four minutes left before both teams exchanged baskets in the end.

Thompson’s game-winner turned out to be his only points in Game 2 as he made up for an off night in which he was 0-for-4 from the field before the shot and committed six turnovers, although his rebounding prowess was still there with nine boards alongside three assists and two steals.

Stanley Pringle fired 34 points with six rebounds, eight dimes, and one steal to lead Ginebra, which is now halfway into clinching the best-of-seven series.

Aljon Mariano added 20 points on 7-of-11 shooting, nine rebounds, and one assist off the bench.

LA Tenorio only had five points all on free throws, but those charities helped Ginebra preserve the win within the last 18 seconds of the game.

RR Pogoy, who started the season with a 45-point bomb, sizzled anew with 40 points, four rebounds, two assists, and three steals, but the performance still fell short, as TNT dearly missed Ray-Ray Parks, who sat out the game due to a calf strain. (PNA)