Magnolia returns with huge win over Alaska

MANILA -- Magnolia is back!

Now under the Purefoods franchise, Magnolia began its PBA Philippine Cup bid with a 108-95 win over Alaska at the FilOil Flying V Centre on Wednesday night.

Keeping the Hotshots moniker, the team formerly known as Star waxed hot in the second quarter and sustained the lead until the end.

The Aces opened the game sizzling, opening a 22-12 lead late in the first quarter.

The Hotshots began turning the tides at the remainder of the first quarter and blasted off with a 36-point second quarter to take the lead for good.

Paul Lee was unstoppable the entire game, scoring 30 points on 11-of-14 shooting with seven rebounds, six assists, and one steal for Magnolia.

Bam-Bam Gamalinda added 15 points, one rebound, and one assist, while rookie Robbie Herndon chipped in nine markers, seven caroms, and one steal off the bench in his debut.

Calvin Abueva and Vic Manuel each tallied 20 markers, while Jeron Teng made 16 in his debut for Alaska. (PNA)