Barangay Ginebra moved a step closer to the PBA Commissioner’s Cup crown after overpowering TNT Tropang 5G, 116-102, on Sunday, June 7, at the SM MOA Arena in Pasay City.

The Gin Kings bounced back from their Game 2 defeat with an emphatic performance that allowed them to seize a 2-1 lead in the best-of-seven championship series. Backed by a crowd of 18,607 fans, the largest attendance recorded this season, Ginebra established control early and never relinquished it.

The victory placed the Kings in a favorable position as they seek another title under veteran coach Tim Cone. Ginebra dictated the pace from the opening quarter and maintained its advantage throughout the contest.

Fast start sets tone

Ginebra wasted little time creating separation. Stephen Holt sparked the early surge with three three-pointers in the opening period, helping the Kings race to a commanding lead.

The explosive start resulted in a 35-16 advantage after the first quarter. Ginebra continued to apply pressure and entered halftime comfortably ahead, 59-42.

Holt finished with 23 points and provided the offensive spark that allowed the Kings to establish momentum from the outset. His perimeter shooting created opportunities for the rest of the team and prevented TNT from settling into its defensive rhythm.

Justin Brownlee once again delivered a standout performance on the championship stage. The veteran import poured in 41 points while contributing seven rebounds, seven assists, and three steals in nearly 45 minutes of action.

Brownlee later acknowledged Holt’s contribution in helping the team gain control early in the game.

Stars deliver again

Scottie Thompson produced another all-around masterpiece for Ginebra, recording a triple-double with 17 points, 11 rebounds, and 11 assists. His versatility played a major role in keeping the Kings organized on both ends of the floor.

RJ Abarrientos struggled offensively for stretches but came through with timely baskets in the fourth quarter. He ended the night with 15 points, six assists, and five rebounds.

Japeth Aguilar and Troy Rosario also logged extended minutes as Ginebra relied heavily on its core rotation. Their contributions added balance to an already efficient team effort.

“In a finals game, I don’t think everybody realizes how difficult it is to get the early lead and keep that lead all the way through the game,” Cone said.

“It’s hard to do in a finals game so I got to tip my cap to our players. It was the third game in five days and we played five or six guys tonight in heavy minutes but they reached deep, knowing that this could be a pivotal game in this series.”

TNT struggled to keep pace despite strong performances from Chris McCullough and RR Pogoy. McCullough erupted for 44 points, 13 rebounds, and four assists, while Pogoy added 28 points.

However, the Tropang 5G received limited offensive production from other key contributors. Rey Nambatac failed to score, while Calvin Oftana was held to just two points.

With the series now tilted in Ginebra’s favor, the Kings head into the next game carrying momentum and confidence as they attempt to move closer to another Commissioner’s Cup championship.