Barangay Ginebra returned to form in the PBA Philippine Cup with a decisive 103-85 victory over Blackwater at the Ynares Sports Center in Antipolo Wednesday, Dec. 10. The Gin Kings bounced back from a previous loss to Phoenix, moving to 4-4 and strengthening their chances for a top-eight playoff spot.

The game turned in the second quarter, when starters Stephen Holt, Jonathan Gray, Troy Rosario, Scottie Thompson, and Japeth Aguilar spearheaded a 40-20 run, building a 63-42 halftime lead. The Gin Kings maintained control in the second half, with reserves contributing 53 points to complement the starters’ 50, showcasing depth and balance across the roster.

Balanced scoring drives Ginebra’s playoff momentum

Barangay Ginebra’s victory was fueled by both the starting unit and the bench. Abarrientos led the reserves with 15 points, three rebounds, one assist, and a steal. Coach Tim Cone lauded the entire roster, noting that the starters set the tone while the second and third groups sustained intensity throughout the contest.

The balanced performance positions Ginebra alongside Meralco at seventh place, a game and a half clear of Phoenix and Titan Ultra. Blackwater, meanwhile, fell to its eighth straight loss, ending its playoff hopes for the season. The win gives the Gin Kings a solid platform as they look to climb further in the standings.

Upcoming crucial matchups for Ginebra

Looking ahead, Barangay Ginebra will face Terrafirma on Friday, Dec. 12 at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila. The team then travels to Bahrain to take on Rain or Shine on Dec. 17 before concluding the elimination round at home against Titan Ultra on Dec. 21.

Coach Cone emphasized a focus on consistency and winning each game. “We want to win as many games, and see where we are,” he said, underlining the importance of maintaining momentum for the playoff push.