Star whips Mahindra to continue hot start

By Ivan Saldajeno

QUEZON CITY—Star stretched its sizzling start in the PBA Commissioner's Cup with a 97-83 rout of Mahindra at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Wednesday night.

The Hotshots limited the Floodbusters to only 30 points by halftime and led by as much as 21 in the third quarter to secure the blowout win.

Tony Mitchell led six Star players in double figures with 19 points, 14 rebounds, six blocks, and one steal, while Jio Jalalon added 14 points, one rebound, three steals, and three assists, including one that led to a highlight reel windmill slam by Mitchell.

Alex Mallari had 24 points, six rebounds, one assist, and two steals for Mahindra, which fell to 1-4.

Keith Wright's PBA debut was somehow spoiled as he was limited to 17 points on 8-of-22, although he also tallied 14 rebounds, five dimes, and three blocks.

The Hotshots have now tied the Alaska Aces in first place at 4-0.

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