Magnolia Hotshots Stay Perfect In Six Games, Wallop NorthPort Batang Pier

In a dominant display of teamwork and offensive firepower, the Magnolia Hotshots extended their undefeated streak to six games with a resounding 125-89 victory over the NorthPort Batang Pier in the PBA on Tour at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig Friday, June 23.

Under the guidance of coach Chito Victolero, the Hotshots have emphasized the importance of sharing the ball, teamwork, and chemistry, which has been evident in their performances throughout the preseason event presented by Arena Plus and sponsored by Bingo Plus.

Against the Batang Pier, Magnolia showcased their depth and versatility as seven players reached double figures, with two more contributing eight points each. The Hotshots joined the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters as the only two teams with unblemished records, with the latter boasting a 4-0 standing.

The Batang Pier, led by Arvin Tolentino, struggled to keep up with the torrid offense of the Hotshots, resulting in the end of their three-game winning streak. NorthPort’s overall record dropped to 3-3.

The game was tightly contested until Jed Mendoza, connecting on all three of his three-point attempts, spearheaded a scoring spree for the Hotshots, pushing them to a 53-41 advantage at halftime. From there, multiple players took turns leading the attack as the Hotshots built a commanding lead that reached as high as 39 points.

Jerrick Ahanmisi led all scorers with 23 points, accompanied by five rebounds, two assists, and one steal, displaying his scoring prowess and all-around contribution. The Filipino-American forward from Adamson University expressed the team’s dedication to the “On Tour” exhibition, acknowledging the importance of working on their game and improving with each opportunity.

The Hotshots demonstrated their unity and cohesion on the court, with Joseph Eriobu, a recent trade acquisition, making a significant impact with 16 points, four rebounds, three assists, and two steals. Mendoza also played a vital role, contributing 11 points and seven assists. 

Other players who reached double figures included James Laput (15 points), Jackson Corpus (14 points), Rome dela Rosa (11 points), and Mark Barroca (10 points). Paul Lee provided eight points, four assists, and two rebounds in a limited playing time of 16 minutes and 22 seconds.

Tolentino led the Batang Pier with 19 points, including two three-pointers, but his efforts were not enough to overcome the Hotshots’ dominant performance.

Magnolia’s perfect start to the preseason tournament showcases its commitment to preparation and improvement. Coach Chito Victolero expressed his satisfaction with the team’s dedication and highlighted the need to focus on small battles and continuous growth in practices.

The Hotshots’ impressive victory against the Batang Pier solidifies their position as the team to beat in the PBA on Tour, while NorthPort looks to regroup and bounce back from the defeat as they aim to regain their winning form.

The boxscores:

Magnolia 125 – Ahanmisi 23, Eriobu 16, Laput 15, Corpuz 14, Dela Rosa 11, Mendoza 11, Barroca 10, Lee 8, Jalalon 8, Murrell 5, Reavis 4, Sangalang 0.

NorthPort 89 – Tolentino 19, Calma 12, Munzon 10, Salado 10, Zamar 9, Yu 9, Ayaay 5, Santos 4, Gabriel 3, Olivario 3, Comboy 3, Bulawan 2, Sobrevega 0, Bauzon 0, Balagasay 0.

Quarters: 21-21 53-41, 83-64, 125-89.