MANILA — Magnolia Hotshots wasted no time in taking down Blackwater Bossing and scored a 117-83 blowout in their PBA on Tour battle on Sunday night at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.
The Hotshots dominated the first half and raced to a 68-30 lead at halftime, something that the Bossing could not overcome.
Abu Tratter had a solid debut with Magnolia, scoring 14 points and grabbing seven rebounds.
Jerrick Ahanmisi and Mark Barroca also had 14 points each off the bench, while Aris Dionisio and James Laput each chipped in 12 with Laput also grabbing 12 boards for the double-double.
James Sena had 11 points, five rebounds, and two assists for Blackwater.
In the nightcap, Raul Soyud outplayed Anjo Caram in the battle of unsung heroes as Phoenix Fuel Masters took down Meralco Bolts, 100-93.
Soyud finished with 25 points on 11-for-12 shooting with 13 rebounds and one block, but more importantly, the Fuel Masters pulled away in the final three minutes to edge the Bolts, who drew an inspiring performance from Caram.
RR Garcia added 15 points, two rebounds, five assists, and two steals, but none was more important than his four consecutive free throws in the end that iced the game for Phoenix.
Larry Muyang added 13 points, 12 rebounds, and two blocks off the bench.
Caram finished with 24 points, while Bong Quinto added 10 points for Meralco. (PNA)
