Gin Kings avoid ouster, rout Texters to extend series

MANILA, Philippines — Barangay Ginebra staved off elimination with an emphatic 125 -101 victory over the TNT KaTropa in Game Three of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup semifinals Thursday night at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Kings leaned on a 19-point run in the second quarter to mount a lead that the KaTropa were unable to overcome.

Justin Brownlee again spearheaded the Kings' offense with 31 points, 11 rebounds and four blocks. Scottie Thompson, Japeth Aguilar and Solomon Mercado chimed in 17, 15 and 12 markers, respectively.

“When we can make shots, our offense is a lot different. And it spills on our defense,” said head coach Tim Cone. “It helps a lot when you make shots. And we made shots today.”

“The easy thing to say, is that the import didn't get much minutes tonight. We don’t know what's going on,” he furthered.

Things couldn’t get worse for the TNT side as their hulking import, Joshua Smith, had his shoe busted in second quarter. He left the game midway in the final frame and eventually the venue for still unclear reasons.

As if Ginebra needed more help, legend and former senator Sonny Jaworski was also in attendance.

“Boy I just hope he comes every game. We’ve played well every time he’s come,” Cone added. “He blocks out the sun. He’s such a huge presence for us.”

“Bottom line is that we haven't done much of anything. We’re on the same boat as Star (1-2).” the Grand Slam tactician said.

“Let the chips fall where they may. At least we got one … let's see if we could carry it over to Game Four,” he closed.

Game Four of the semis series will be at the Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay City this Saturday.

The Scores:

GINEBRA 125 - Brownlee 31, Thompson 17, Aguilar 15, Mercado 12, Devance 10, Ellis 9, Cruz 9, Tenorio 8, Ferrer 5, Mariano 5, Taha 2, Jamito 2, Helterbrand 0, Caguioa 0.

TNT 101 - Garcia 16, Tautuaa 15, Carey 11, Reyes 9, Rosario 8, Castro 7, Rosales 7, Hernandez 6, Nuyles 6, Smith 4, Pogoy 4, Semerad 3, De Ocampo 3, Golla 0, Tamsi 0.

Quarters: 34-28, 61-47, 96-74, 125-101.