Ian Sangalang converted a layup off a feed by Paul Lee at the final buzzer as the Magnolia Hotshots Pambansang Manok scored an 84-82 win against the Alaska Aces in the 46th PBA Season Philippine Cup Wednesday, July 21 at the Ynares Arena in Pasig City.
Needing a basket to seal the win, Sangalang found himself open at the shaded area as Lee drove inside and drew three Aces defenders, including Sangalang’s man Yousef Taha.
The win improved Magnolia’s record to 2-0 and joined Meralco and Rain or Shine on top of the standings while Alaska suffered its first defeat after winning its first game last Friday.
Magnolia coach Chito Victolero commended his players for the effort they gave despite the lack of preparation against the Aces since the Hotshots were supposed to play the Tropang Giga.
The PBA Commissioner's Office decided to cancel the game and instead pushed through with the Magnolia-Alaska match after four TNT players entered COVID-19 protocols and are now waiting the results of their RT-PCR tests
“Sinabi ko na this is not an easy game. We have to be committed on this game because it’s hard. We only had one-week preparation. We need to adjust right away," said Victolero.
"But no excuses na nagpalit ang kalaban.”
Sangalang led the Hotshots with 26 points, while Lee added 16 points. Rome dela Rosa and Mark Barroca contributed 12 and 10 points, respectively. Calvin Abueva had nine points and 10 rebounds.
Alaska got 20 points from Taha, Jeron Teng had 10 and 12 boards.
The Scores:
MAGNOLIA 84 – Sangalang 26, Lee 16, dela Rosa 12, Barroca 10, Abueva 9, Dionisio 5, Jalalon 4, Corpuz 2, Reavis 0, Ahanmisi 0.
ALASKA 82 – Taha 20, Tratter 10, Teng 10, Banal 9, Herndon 8, Casio 7, Digregorio 6, Adamos 6, Ahanmisi 3, Brondial 3, Browne 0.
Quarters: 26-25; 41-47; 65-66; 84-82.