Ginebra gains another lifeline

CEBU, Philippines —  After NorthPort Batang Pier’s victory over the Alaska Aces last Thursday, the Barangay Ginebra Kings got a new lease on life in their title retention bid.

And the defending champions made the most of the opportunity.

The Kings gained another lifeline after they outclassed the Phoenix Super LPG Fuel Masters, 95-85, in their knockout match to grab the eighth and last quarterfinals berth of the 46th PBA Philippine Cup on Saturday night at the Don Honorio Ventura State University gym in Bacolor, Pampanga.

“We’re struggling, but we’re able to show our winning attitude. Never say die lang talaga,” said back-up center Prince Caperal who sizzled with 19 points and four rebounds as Ginebra joined TNT, Meralco, Magnolia, San Miguel Beer, NorthPort, Rain or Shine and NLEX in the playoffs.

Stanley Pringle unloaded 17 points laced with eight rebounds and four assists, Christian Standhardinger posted a solid double-double of 15 points and 12 boards, while Jared Dillinger chipped in 14 markers for Kings, who still have a mountain to climb as they face next the top seed TNT Tropang Giga in the Final Eight.

That means Ginebra needs to beat TNT twice to keep their title defense alive, a daunting but achievable mission for a team known for its timed tested never-say-die spirit.