The Hotshots fended off a late-run by the Tropang Giga before sealing the win.
Tyler Bey is the man.
The prolific Hotshots import did pretty much everything as top-ranked Magnolia drubbed TNT Tropang Giga, 109-94, to barge into the PBA Commissioner’s Cup semifinals on Wednesday at the PhilSports Arena.
Bey fired 41 points, including the booming triple in the final seconds that pierced through the hearts of the Tropang Giga faithful. Just for good measure, he also had 13 rebounds, two assists, five steals, and three blocks.
Tyler was terrific, but he also had plenty of help with Mark Barrica finishing with 17 points, two rebounds, and three assists as Magnolia's top local. Ian Sangalang and Calvin Abueva combined for 24 points and 11 boards.
In making quick work of no. 8 TNT, Magnolia awaits the winner between the Meralco Bolts and the Phoenix Fuel Masters in the next round.
“Right now we need to rest. Kailangan magkaroon ng magandang preparation (for next series),” said Magnolia coach Chito Victolero.
With their backs against the wall, the Tropang Giga refused to fold and ignited a 15-4 spurt powered by RR Pogoy’s two three-pointers to cut what was a 19-point deficit down to eight, 95-87.
But Bey and Barroca conspired in the final minutes to pull off the win for the Hotshots.
Rahlir Hollis-Jefferson flirted with a triple double and churned out 27 points, nine rebounds, 11 assists, three steals, and three blocks. Calvin Oftana scored 20 points, while Pogoy had 17 built on five triples for TNT, who will once again miss the semifinals of the Commissioner's Cup.