MANILA, Philippines — Magnolia broke from free from a tight start behind Zavier Lucero and Jerick Ahanmisi’s red-hot offensive in the second quarter to register a runaway 127-94 smashing of woeful Terrafirma on Sunday to remain unbeaten in the PBA Philippine Cup at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.
Lucero and Ahanmisi combined for 14 of the Hotshots’ 38 points in the second period alone, as they took control of the game after a tight 27-25 count at the end of the first 12 minutes of action.
Lucero went on to finish with 17 points and nine rebounds to lead the Hotshots, Paul Lee added 13, while Ahanmisi and Joseph Eriobu each scored 11.
Magnolia improveed to a tournament-best 5-0 to lead the standings, while the Dyip from their fourth straight game since opening with a win over Phoenix.
“Yes, we’re happy we have a good start compared to the last two conferences. But we’re still far from our goal and we just need to keep working hard every time we prepare for a game,” said Victolero, whose team is aching to end a seven-year PBA title drought.
Mark Sangalang led Terrafirma with 19 points, while Kevin Ferrer and Stanley Pringle each added 17.