Shabazz Muhammad saves the day for Magnolia against Terrafirma

Shabazz Muhammad saved the day for Magnolia as they outlasted Terrafirma, 99-98, on Thursday in the 2024 PBA Governors' Cup at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila.

It was a tight affair in the fourth period as the Hotshots were trailing within two, 95-93, after a Zav Lucero layup at the 1:04 mark of the said frame. Paul Lee then connected from beyond the second arc to get the lead, 97-95, with 21 seconds left. 

However, Paolo Hernandez drilled a triple to reclaim the lead, 98-97, with 15 seconds remaining in the game. Muhammad, who made his debut for Magnolia, just made it in time with a jumper at the 0:07 mark to seal the deal for the Hotshots as Kevin Ferrer failed to sink his three-point attempt.

Muhammad had 20 points, four rebounds, an assist, and a steal, while Lucero had 17 points, five rebounds, and three blocks. Lee, meanwhile, had nine points as Magnolia improved to 4-3 in Group A.

The win spoiled Antonio Hester's 39 points, 16 rebounds, and five assists as Terrafirma remained winless in seven games.

Earlier, TNT defeated Meralco, 108-99, to take the top spot in Group A with six wins and one loss. Meralco, meanwhile, slipped to 5-2.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News