Magnolia demolishes Rain or Shine, 121-69, to even PBA QF series

Magnolia demolished Rain or Shine, 121-69, in Game 2 of their quarterfinals series in the PBA Governors' Cup on Friday at the Sta. Rosa Sports Complex in Laguna.

The win tied the series at 1-1.

An explosive first half for the Hotshots, particularly where they outscored Rain or Shine 32-5 in the second quarter, handed them the 66-28 lead after 24 minutes of action.

From then, Magnolia never looked back and cruised until the victory.

Jabari Bird, Magnolia's new import, had 22 points, 13 rebounds, and two assists in his debut.

For head coach Chito Victolero, Bird's arrival was a big factor.

"Big factor. It's not the numbers but I it's the aura, the positive aura and the positive vibes of JB. I told him na ang kailangan lang namin is contribution on the little things, rebounding and the energy which I think is nabigay sa amin ni JB 'yun," Victolero said while also praising his local players who stepped up in the game.

"I'm very proud and thankful sa locals namin kasi 'di sila nag-give up."

Calvin Abueva also registered a double-double with 18 points and ten boards, along with two assists and two steals, while Mark Barroca had 11 points and ten assists. 

Adrian Nocum had 13 points, while Felix Lemetti had 11 points for the Elasto Painters.

This is Rain or Shine's worst loss in franchise history and sixth most lopsided game in PBA history, second only in the playoffs.

Scores:

Magnolia 121 – Bird 22, Abueva 18, Sangalang 12, Barroca 11, Eriobu 11, Dela Rosa 11, Dionisio 9, Lucero 9, Mendoza 7, Laput 4, Lee 4, Balanza 2, Reavis 1, Alfaro 0, Ahanmisi 0, Escoto 0.

Rain or Shine 69 – Nocum 13, Lemetti 11, Asistio 7, Datu 7, Clarito 6, Santillan 6, Mamuyac 5, Tiongson 5, Fuller 4, Belga 4, Caracut 1, Escandor 0, Borboran 0, 0, Ildefonso 0, Villegas 0, Norwood 0.

Quarters: 34-23, 66-28, 88-49, 121-69.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News