Ginebra dominates Macau: Brownlee, Abarrientos lead big win

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Barangay Ginebra hit the ground running and defeated Macau, 110-93, in their PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup opener at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Friday, March 20. Justin Brownlee led the charge with 31 points, 10 rebounds, five assists, two steals, and two blocks. RJ Abarrientos added 25 points, seven assists, and six rebounds, filling in for Scottie Thompson, who was sidelined with an elbow injury.

The Gin Kings set the tone early with a 10-point first quarter from Brownlee. Abarrientos then fueled a 39-22 second-quarter run to put Ginebra comfortably ahead 63-43. Macau could not recover and fell to 0-3 after the final buzzer.

Justin Brownlee drives to the basket, scoring for Barangay Ginebra against Macau in the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup. [photo credit: Peter Baltazar]

Brownlee and Abarrientos ignite Ginebra’s debut

Brownlee’s all-around performance kept Macau on their heels throughout the first half. Abarrientos managed the backcourt efficiently, ensuring the Gin Kings maintained control of the game. The team’s aggressive approach reflected lessons from their previous Philippine Cup campaign, where a slow 1-2 start almost derailed their playoff chances.

Coach Tim Cone emphasized the importance of fast starts. “Ginebra fans remember last conference we got off to a slow start. Everybody counted us out, but we battled back to reach the semis. We talked a lot about getting out of the gate quickly this time,” he said. Aguilar anchored the interior defense, limiting Macau’s scoring options. The combination of speed, spacing, and intensity made Ginebra dominant.

Ginebra sets pace for the tournament

The Gin Kings also showcased depth through strategic rotations. Every player contributed with points, assists, or rebounds, maintaining energy and offensive flow. Macau’s Damian Chongqui led his team with 28 points, followed by Jenning Leung with 21 and Phoenix Shackelford with 18. Import Tony Mitchell scored 14, but the combined effort could not match Ginebra’s balance.

Ginebra’s debut sends a message to all teams in the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup. With momentum, teamwork, and a high-energy approach, the Gin Kings appear ready to contend for the title. The integration of Brownlee, Abarrientos, and Aguilar ensures sustained dominance in the tournament.