MANILA – Ginebra clinched the first seat in the PBA Commissioner's Cup Finals after drubbing Magnolia, 99-84, in Game 4 of their semifinal series on Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
Just like in Game 3 on Sunday night, the Gin Kings blew out the Hotshots, and this time from the get-go, opening a 29-18 first-quarter lead and never looking back from there.
Justin Brownlee led Ginebra, which clinched the best-of-five "Manila Clasico" semis series, 3-1, with 24 points, 14 rebounds, six assists, two steals and five blocks.
Japeth Aguilar chipped in 19 points, eight rebounds, three assists, and two steals, while LA Tenorio added 18 points on 7-of-14 shooting including 4-of-8 on threes, five rebounds, five assists and two steals.
Calvin Abueva put up 14 points, six rebounds, two assists, three steals and one block, while Nick Rakocevic added 13 points, 13 rebounds, one assist, two blocks and one steal for Magnolia.
With the win, the Gin Kings are now assured of playing in the finals against the winner between San Miguel Beer and guest team Bay Area starting on Christmas Day at the MOA.
"I'm so thankful we don't have to play a Game 5 against this team," Ginebra coach Tim Cone said. (PNA)
