Rome Dela Rosa 'always an option' for Magnolia in endgame says Chito Victolero

Chito Victolero is not just relying on his Magnolia superstars down the stretch. Dennis Acosta

By Ivan Saldajeno

PASAY--A reminder to Magnolia fans: don't just look at Paul Lee, Ian Sangalang, Mark Barroca, and Calvin Abueva to close out the game for your team.

Coach Chito Victolero said on Wednesday that anyone can contribute in the clutch for the Hotshots.

That was exactly what happened when Rome Dela Rosa won it for them with a wide-open three-pointer to beat the NorthPort Batang Pier at the Mall of Asia Arena.

[Related Story: Magnolia escapes over NorthPort on Rome Dela Rosa winner]

"It's always an option to have Aris [Dionisio] and Rome in the corners," Victolero said of both Dela Rosa and Dionisio, who are known for their corner three shooting.

Relaying the play that led Magnolia to the win, Victolero also gave credit to Jio Jalalon for orchestrating it.

"We want Jio to create for his teammates, and good thing Calvin [Abueva] and also Aris dived to the basket. And then nag-collapse sila, so si Rome yung nalibre," Victolero said.

Despite losing a 17-point lead, Victolero is glad that the Hotshots still finished the job on both ends of the floor.

"We did a good job on executing on both ends, especially down the stretch. We have that discipline and the character that we want," he further said.

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