NorthPort rode on a huge fourth quarter run to sink Magnolia, 107-103, and stay spotless through three games in the PBA Season 49 Commissioner’s Cup at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium on Wednesday, Dec. 4.

The triumvirate of Arvin Tolentino, Joshua Munzon and import Kadeem Jack spearheaded a crucial 16-3 run that created separation and against the Hotshots who now have lost their second straight game.

Jack anchored the Batang Pier with 30 points, 11 rebounds to go with two steals and two blocks while Tolentino sustained his fine play with 27 points – 19 of which he fired in the second half.

Munzon, on the other hand, was all over the floor with 25 points, nine rebounds along with five huge steals.

He also delivered the crucial hits in the waning seconds – a four-pointer and a layup – that kept the Batang Pier afloat after the Hotshots came within one, 95-96, with 1:46 left.

‘Yung nagpanalo sa amin dito is yung defense and plus factor dito sa amin is yung fastbreak points. Iyon talaga yung gusto naming ma-achieve sa game na ito, which is to outrun Magnolia,” said assistant coach Rensy Bajar.

The ploy did work wonders for NorthPort as it tightened up its defensive screws just when it mattered the most.

Tied 78-all, the Batang Pier turned to their defense and limited the Hotshots, who were missing the services of Paul Lee, to just three points for the first eight minutes of the final frame to take a 94-81 lead.

Jerom Lastimosa ended the drought with a basket at the 4:58 mark, sparking a huge uprising for Magnolia which went on a 14-2 run to come within one. That, however, was the closest the Hotshots could get as Munzon restored order for the Batang Pier.

Lastimosa finished with 27 points, eight rebounds and eight assists but had his best PBA game yet go for naught. Rome Dela Rosa had 16 and Mark Barroca 14 but Magnolia only had 10 points and 13 rebounds from import Ricardo Ratliffe.