Pacquiao, Stalwarts edge Greats in PBA All-Star Blitz Game

MANILA, Philippines — There were barely any attendees, but the nightcap of the first day of the PBA All-Star Weekend refused to be boring, all thanks to an unlikely hero.

And that hero, in a hardwood that featured the names of the likes of Johnny Abarrientos, Bong Ravena, Noli Locsin and Ronnie Magsanoc, was boxing-turned-politician-turned-pro cager Manny Pacquiao.

The rookie senator, who also serves as the Mahindra Enforcer's head coach, tallied nine markers for the Stalwarts side that beat the Greats gang, 99-94, Friday at the Araneta Coliseum.

Pacquiao started off sluggish, missing his first three shots -- all of them unguarded -- before making a short stab in the opening quarter.

But the highlight? It was putting the newly-minted Obstacle Challenge king Maverick Ahanmisi on a highlight reel:

' @mannypacquiao before the buzzer! pic.twitter.com/4WXHSBCBCt

— PBA (@pbaconnect) August 5, 2016

Raymond Almazan provided the bulk of scoring for the Stalwarts with 23 points. He was named Most Valuable Player in a game that counted dunks as three-pointers.

Pacquiao scored seven in the first period and then two more points in the second salvo. He dished out two assists too.

Ian Sangalang led the team of Greats with 14 points. Jonathan Grey added 13, including a three-pointer at the buzzer.

Pacquiao, who also doubles as a point guard for the Enforcers, even started for the Stalwarts at the forward position.