Barangay Ginebra downs San Miguel, sets up PBA Governors' Cup Finals duel vs TNT

Barangay Ginebra is once again heading to the PBA Governors' Cup Finals after defeating San Miguel, 102-99, in Game 6 of the semifinals on Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Ginebra won its fourth game in the series and set up a duel against defending champions TNT Tropang Giga.

Ginebra was leading 86-78 early in the fourth period before San Miguel caught up and trailed within one, 99-98, after back-to-back baskets from June Mar Fajardo and import EJ Anosike. However, Justin Brownlee connected from beyond the arc to give Ginebra enough breathing room and the shot eventually sealed the deal.

"It took every little ounce of whatever we had left to win tonight. It just took a toll on all of us and them too. I gotta give credit to Coach Jorge for being able to keep that team together," Barangay Ginebra head coach Tim Cone said. "That was our edge throughout the series, that we had a little bit of energy than they did."

Maverick Ahanmisi had 25 points, two rebounds, an assist, and a steal to lead Barangay Ginebra, while Brownlee had 21 points, seven boards, seven assists, three steals, and two blocks. Japeth Aguilar also added 20 points, while RJ Abarrientos had 16 points. Scottie Thompson had a double-double outing of 10 points, 14 boards, along with four assists, a steal, and a block.

Anosike, meanwhile, had 30 points, while Fajardo had 22 points and 15 rebounds, on top of ofur assists, a steal, and a block.

Game 1 of the Finals will be held on Sunday in Antipolo.

Scores:

Barangay Ginebra 102 – Ahanmisi 25, Brownlee 21, J.Aguilar 20, Abarrientos 16, Thompson 10, Cu 7, Holt 3, mariano 0, Adamos 0.

San Miguel 99 – Anosike 30, Fajardo 22, Lassiter 16, Perez 13, Cruz 8, Trollano 8, Manuel 2, Romeo 0, Ross 0.

Quarters: 23-27, 46-49, 76-75, 102-99.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News