After suffering three lopsided defeats, NorthPort refused to be swept in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup semifinals, stunning Barangay Ginebra, 108-103, in Game 4 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Tolentino and Jack Lead NorthPort’s Breakthrough Win

Arvin Tolentino finally broke free from Ginebra’s defense, putting up a near-triple-double performance with 20 points, 11 assists, and nine rebounds. Kadeem Jack carried the offensive load, exploding for 39 points, while William Navarro (16 points), Josh Munzon (14 points), and Paolo Taha (11 points) provided crucial support.

“It’s about finding a way, and we found a way as a team,” said Tolentino, who had been limited to 11.6 points per game in the first three contests.

NorthPort Overcomes Ginebra’s Late Rally

The Batang Pier led by as many as 11 points, but Ginebra mounted a late-game surge, cutting the deficit to 103-104 in the final seconds.

However, Jack and Tolentino sealed the win, with Jack knocking down a clutch turnaround jumper over Troy Rosario and Tolentino icing the game with two free throws.

NorthPort Eyes Another Upset in Game 5

Despite still trailing 1-3 in the series, NorthPort remains hopeful of extending the semifinals even further.

“It’s just one win, and we still need three more. But I believe nothing is impossible,” Tolentino said.

“The coaching staff emphasized energy and defensive aggression, and the players took it to heart,” added assistant coach Renzy Bajar.

NorthPort will attempt to extend the series again in Game 5, set for Friday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.