Standhardinger banks in game-winner as Ginebra completes comeback vs SMB, clinches finals ticket

Christian Standhardinger buried the game-winning shot as Ginebra came back from 18 points down to stun San Miguel in Game Three of their semifinals series, 87-85, and book a finals ticket to the 2023 PBA Governors' Cup on Wednesday.

The 6-foot-8 big man knocked down the lay-up that gave the Gin Kings a two-point lead with three seconds left in the game. Marcio Lassiter then missed out on his final attempt, giving Ginebra the victory and the series sweep.

Prior to that, Ginebra trailed by as much as 18 points, 62-44, halfway through the third period before the Beermen ended the frame holding on to a 70-58 spread.

Ginebra then outscored San Miguel in the fourth, 29 to 15, capped the clincher from the FIlipino-German bruiser, who finished with 14 points, 17 rebounds, seven assists, and two steals.

Justin Brownlee starred with 22 points, 14 rebounds, four assists, and two steals while Scottie Thompson provided the boost with 17 markers, 11 boards, and three dimes as the defending champions returned to the championship round.

Cameron Clark finished with 16 points and 10 rebounds while CJ Perez and Lassiter chimed in with 14 and 13 apiece.

Ginebra now awaits the winner of the semis series between TNT and Meralco.

—Bea Micaller/JMB, GMA Integrated News