Magnolia roared to a winning start after drubbing undefeated NLEX, 102-72, in the 2018 PBA Governors' Cup on Wednesday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Even without star Paul Lee, Magnolia was a well-oiled machine. The Hotshots raced off to a 31-12 start and refused to ease on the gas.
The Hotshots showed no signs of slowing down even when they built a seemingly insurmountable lead. In the fourth period, Rome dela Rosa scored five points capped by a 3-pointer that gave Magnolia a 93-64 advantage, with six minutes remaining.
Romeo Travis reintroduced himself to the PBA by scoring 21 points and grabbing 13 rebounds. He also had three assists, two steals, and two blocks. The former Alaska import, though, had seven turnovers.
Without Lee local guards Mark Barroca,13 points and PJ Simon,12 points, stepped up.
Magnolia coach Chito Victolero said his squad focused on defense with their main scorer out,.
"We prepared hard for this game especially on defense. We wanted to limit them to under 90 points," said Victolero. "I'm proud of my players. They played well defensively. It was a total team effort."
Magnolia also dealt NLEX its first loss after an impressive 2-0 start with import Olu Ashaolu, who played with practically one leg after suffering a ruptured patellar tendon on his right knee in a tuneup game before the conference.
Despite his injury, Ashaolu was the lone bright spot for the Road Warriors. He wound up with 21 markers, nine boards, and three assists.
THE SCORES
Magnolia 102 - Travis 21, Barroca 13, Simon 12, Gamalinda 10, dela Rosa 10 Reavis 8, Melton 7, Jalalon 6, Sangalang 5, Mendoza 4, Ramos 4, Herndon 2, Pascual 0, Brondial 0, Abundo 0.
NLEX 72 - Ashaolu 21, Tiongson 8, Fonacier 6, Ighalo 6, Mallari 5, Quinahan 5, Rios 5, Paniamogan 4, Monfort 2, Baguio 2, Miranda 2, Galanza 2, Gotladera 2, Tallo 2, Marcelo 0, Soyud 0.
Quarterscores: 31-12, 55-30, 76-52, 102-72
EXTRA DRIBBLES
Magnolia star Paul Lee is currently playing for the Philippine team in the ongoing Asian Games.
Olu Ashaolu will undergo rehab and will be temporarily replaced by Aaron Fuller. Fuller watched the game from the sidelines.
NEXT GAMES
Magnolia - vs NorthPort on September 1 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
NLEX - vs Columbian Dyip on August 29 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.