Traded to Magnolia for Calvin Abueva, William Navarro will make his debut when the Hotshots take on Ginebra in the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup.
Magnolia looks to make a bold statement when it faces archrival Barangay Ginebra in a marquee Manila Clasico matchup in the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup on Sunday, June 1.
Gametime is set at 7:30 p.m. at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. Fans can watch the livestream on One Sports' Youtube channel, powered by Pilipinas Live.
[RELATED STORY: Scottie Thompson proud as ex-Palaro teammate turned Davao region coach steers team to gold]
The Hotshots (7-1) just got back on track with a 106-97 win over NorthPort, and they’re looking to keep their hold of the top spot as the elimination round nears its close.
Zavier Lucero led the charge with an all-around performance of 20 points, eight rebounds, two assists, three steals, and two blocks, while Paul Lee added 16 points highlighted by a pair of four-pointers.
Adding intrigue to the showdown is the debut of William Navarro, whom Magnolia recently acquired from NorthPort in exchange for Calvin Abueva.
Head coach Chito Victolero confirmed to One Sports that Navarro is set to suit up in what could be a crucial addition to the team’s already-deep rotation.
[ALSO READ: Why did Magnolia trade Calvin Abueva for Will Navarro? Chito Victolero explains]
Meanwhile, Ginebra (5-3) is licking its wounds from an 82-73 loss to Meralco, and will be just as determined to avoid consecutive defeats.
In a rivalry that rarely disappoints, expect fireworks and playoff-like intensity as Magnolia aims to assert its dominance while Ginebra fights to stay in step.
(With reports from Jan Ballesteros)
——
[Editor's note: This article was written by a member of the One Sports Digital with the help of AI, and then checked by the staff to ensure accuracy.]