Ginebra takes pivotal 2-1 lead in 'Clasico' semis with Game 3 blowout vs. Magnolia

Jamie Malonzo goes for a dunk. PBA Images

By Ivan Saldajeno

PASIG—After two razor-thin outcomes to open the series, Ginebra pulled off a 103-80 Game 3 blowout against Magnolia on Sunday night at the PhilSports Arena here to take a crucial 2-1 lead in their PBA Commissioner's Cup semifinals.

After the first two games were decided by three points or less, the Gin Kings settled the outcome by the second quarter, outscoring the Hotshots, 32-19, to open a 49-34 halftime lead, which was stretched to as high as 25 late in the fourth quarter.

Justin Brownlee exploded for 38 points with nine rebounds, seven assists, two steals, and one block for Ginebra, which can close out the "Manila Clasico" semis on Wednesday as the series shifts to the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.

He had 20 points by halftime, which was enough for him to become the first foreign reinforcement in 27 years to join the elite 5,000 Points Club.

LA Tenorio added 20 points on 7-for-12 shooting including 4-of-6 on threes, one rebound, four assists, and one steal.

Jio Jalalon led Magnolia with 16 points, three rebounds, six assists, and three steals off the bench in a game where Nick Rakocevic, after a 20-20 revenge game in Game 2, was held to only 10 points with 12 rebounds for another double-double.

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