Just three days shy of turning 41, LA Tenorio once again lived up to his legend status, draining a cold-blooded three-pointer in the dying seconds to steal Game 6 for Barangay Ginebra, 88-87, and extend their PBA Philippine Cup semifinal series against San Miguel to a winner-take-all Game 7.

Tenorio, who has spent the past year balancing recovery from cancer and mentoring Gilas Youth, proved he’s far from done on the hardwood. His 11 fourth-quarter points—including the game-winner over a late-closing Jericho Cruz—ignited a wild celebration inside the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Tenorio answers the call in vintage fashion

With Ginebra down most of the night and struggling to contain June Mar Fajardo due to Japeth Aguilar cramping up, coach Tim Cone turned to his most trusted veteran. Tenorio responded with poise, experience, and heroics.

“Miracles do happen,” Cone remarked after the game. “We were searching for answers, and LA gave them to us. That shot wasn’t just clutch—it was classic LA.”

San Miguel had a final look to steal the win with 3.1 seconds remaining. The ball went to CJ Perez, but his contested attempt for a four-point play missed, preserving Tenorio’s latest miracle moment.

Ginebra rallies behind Tenorio, sets up dramatic Game 7

Tenorio’s late-game brilliance was supported by a resurgent Scottie Thompson, who bounced back from a zero-rebound outing with 17 points, 16 rebounds, and eight assists. Aguilar added 16 points before exiting, while rookies Stephen Holt, Troy Rosario, and RJ Abarrientos each scored 12.

Ginebra had trailed by 16 earlier in the game, but stormed back in the final stretch with grit and experience. Tenorio’s game-winner not only capped the comeback but also embodied the “Never Say Die” spirit the franchise is known for.

For Tenorio, now balancing three commitments—Ginebra, Gilas seniors, and Gilas Youth—the moment was bigger than basketball.

“Miracles don’t just happen in games,” he said. “They happen in life too. I’m just blessed to be here, helping this team.”