Terrafirma Dyip wasted no time setting the tone for its campaign in the Philippine Basketball Association Commissioner’s Cup, overpowering the Titan Ultra Giant Risers with a convincing 112-82 victory Wednesday, March 11, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium. The Dyip leaned on the strong play of Ali Mufashar and Jerrick Ahanmisi to secure their first conference-opening win since the 49th Philippine Cup.

Mufashar delivered a double-double with 27 points and 11 rebounds, providing steady production on both ends of the floor. Ahanmisi matched a career-high with 26 points while also dishing out seven assists as Terrafirma dominated most of the contest.

The victory was historic for the franchise, marking the largest winning margin in team history. The Dyip eclipsed their previous record of a 28-point win against the Blackwater Bossing during the 2018 Commissioner’s Cup.

Ahanmisi ignites third-quarter surge

Despite the eventual blowout, Titan managed to stay competitive early in the game behind the scoring of Michael Gilmore. The Giant Risers trailed only 52-40 at halftime after Gilmore poured in 24 points in the opening half.

Joshua Munzon also provided a scoring spark, finishing the night with 32 points. However, Titan struggled to find additional support as no other player reached double figures in the contest.

The turning point came in the third quarter when Ahanmisi erupted offensively. He went 6-of-8 from the field during the period, including a four-point shot, scoring 17 points that helped Terrafirma steadily pull away.

Dyip depth overwhelms Titan

Terrafirma’s dominance continued as the Dyip outscored Titan 37-22 in the third period to build an 89-62 advantage entering the final quarter. The lead ballooned to as much as 99-66 as the Dyip maintained control on both offense and defense.

Joseph Eriobu added to the balanced attack by scoring 17 points, tying a new career high. His inside presence helped Terrafirma maintain the pressure and prevent Titan from mounting any comeback.

Head coach Ronald Tubid credited the team’s chemistry and positive environment during practices for the strong showing. He noted that players had embraced their roles and carried that confidence into the season opener.

For Titan, the loss spoiled the coaching debut of Rensy Bajar. Despite strong performances from Gilmore and Munzon, the Giant Risers could not keep pace with the Dyip’s balanced offense and defensive intensity.