RJ Abarrientos’ quick on-court bump turned into a priceless keepsake for Ginebra fan Cio Galang in Game 1 of their best-of-seven semifinal series against San Miguel Beermen.
It was a career-defining night for RJ Abarrientos as he scored a career-high 35 points to lead Barangay Ginebra San Miguel to a hard-fought 99–98 overtime win over the Converge FiberXers in the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup quarterfinals.
After a slow start in the first half, Abarrientos erupted in the second, scoring 30 points—including four crucial free throws in the final minute—to power the Gin Kings past fourth-seeded, twice-to-beat Converge and set up a do-or-die clash for a semifinal spot on Sunday, Dec. 28.
[ALSO READ: Ginebra ace RJ Abarrientos posts career-high 35 vs Juan GDL, Converge in PBA quarters]
The game was intense not only on the court but also in the stands. In the heat of the moment, Abarrientos accidentally pushed a die-hard fan, Cio Galang, during the final moments of the game. True to sportsmanship, both handled the moment with humor.
“Sorry. Paharang-harang ka kasi. Hello, happy new year!” Abarrientos jokingly said during the post-game of their Game 1 semifinal matchup against the San Miguel Beermen.
Cio, taking it in stride, later shared her excitement online after receiving a signed basketball from her idol: “Thank you Rhonjhay Abarrientos!!! Congratulations Barangay Ginebra San Miguel.”
With Abarrientos firing on all cylinders and the Gin Kings riding the momentum, Ginebra now aims for a 2-0 head start against San Miguel in Game 2 of their best-of-seven semifinals series, scheduled Wednesday at 5:15 p.m. at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
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Inna Mina is a sportswriter with a passion for telling stories that go beyond the scoreboard.
She covers running, athletics, and other major Philippine sporting events, while also following grassroots sports, athlete journeys, and women in sports. Her work also includes lifestyle stories on health, fitness, and community.