Mark Barroca takes over in clutch as Magnolia escapes Converge

Seasoned cager Mark Barroca starred late as the Magnolia Timplados Hotshots escaped Converge, 99-95, in the PBA On Tour on Wednesday at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.

The 37-year-old guard drilled a crucial jumper with 40 ticks left in the fourth quarter to give his side the lead back before he sank two free throws off a foul from Jerrick Balanza in the final eight seconds for a slim 98-95 lead.

Jed Mendoza then split his freebies to seal the deal for the Hotshots, who were missing the services of Calvin Abueva and Ian Sangalang.

Barroca finished with 12 points, 10 of which he scored in the payoff period, laced with seven assists and four rebounds while Paul Lee dropped 21 markers and six dimes. Mendoza chipped in 14 points and two rebounds as James Laput took care of the paint with 10 rebounds and eight points.

The loss spoiled a 20-point outing from Balanza and an 18-point performance from Mike Nieto.

In the first game, Blackwater carved out a 100-94 victory against Terrafirma with Troy Rosario starring as he churned out 20 points, five rebounds, and a steal while Rashawn Mccarthy chimed in with 13 markers off the bench.

—Bea Micaller/JMB, GMA Integrated News