Justin Brownlee delivered a commanding performance to lift Barangay Ginebra San Miguel to a 114-98 victory against Terrafirma Dyip in the PBA Season 49 Commissioner’s Cup on Wednesday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
Brownlee bounced back from his off-night against Eastern last Saturday, where he failed to make a single three-pointer, by shooting six triples and finishing with a game-high 49 points. He also contributed 12 rebounds, six assists, and two steals, helping the Gin Kings recover from their previous 93-90 loss and improve to 3-1.
Ginebra’s Grit Amid Missing Starters
Despite missing key starters Japeth Aguilar and Stephen Holt, Ginebra controlled most of the game. Coach Tim Cone praised the team’s effort, saying, “Tonight, it was a good win for us because we were missing two starters, two really important starters in Japeth and Stephen.”
Ginebra led by as many as 22 points late in the third quarter, but Terrafirma mounted a spirited comeback in the fourth behind veteran big man Vic Manuel and rookie Paolo Hernandez. The Dyip cut the deficit to just five points (99-94) with a 20-6 run.
Brownlee and Thompson Seal the Win
With the game tightening, Brownlee returned to steady Ginebra’s offense. He sank four straight free throws, while Scottie Thompson added a critical three-point play to push the lead back to 106-94. Brownlee’s final triple and a layup secured the victory for the Gin Kings.
Supporting Performances
- RJ Abarrientos added 18 points, six assists, two steals, and two rebounds for Ginebra.
- Troy Rosario chipped in with 17 points, five rebounds, and two assists.
- Scottie Thompson contributed eight points and a crucial three-point play late in the game.
Terrafirma’s Efforts
- Brandon Walton-Edwards led Terrafirma with 27 points and 12 rebounds, while Vic Manuel added 19 markers.
- Rookie Paolo Hernandez scored 10 points, while Stanley Pringle contributed 11.
- The Dyip were without Mark Nonoy, who missed the game due to illness.
Quarter Scores
Ginebra: 26-20, 52-43, 85-69, 114-98
With this win, Ginebra looks to maintain momentum in their next matchup, while Terrafirma aims to regroup and bounce back.