MANILA – Magnolia clinched the second spot in the PBA Commissioner's Cup semifinals after eliminating Phoenix, 102-95 in their quarterfinal battle at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig Friday night.
Despite missing head coach Chito Victolero due to health and safety protocols, the Hotshots still found a way to take down the Fuel Masters, especially late in the game.
Magnolia basically sealed the outcome in the final five-and-a-half minutes of the game by going on a 10-1 run to break an 86-all tie.
Calvin Abueva found his rhythm in the second half and led the Hotshots with 19 points, five rebounds, one assist, and three steals off the bench.
Nick Rakocevic, who sizzled late in the game for the Hotshots, finished with 18 points, 13 rebounds, two assists, five blocks, and four steals.
On the other hand, Tyler Tio fired 18 points, two rebounds, and four assists off the bench, while Encho Serrano and Kaleb Wesson, who flirted with a triple-double, added 16 points, 12 rebounds, and nine assists for Phoenix.
Magnolia will play the winners of the quarterfinal series between Barangay Ginebra and the NorthPort Batang Pier in the semifinals. (PNA)
