Paul Lee steals Game 2 of 'Clasico' semis for Magnolia

Paul Lee won it for the Hotshots. PBA Images

By Ivan Saldajeno

PASIG—Paul Lee scored the game-winner as Magnolia got back at Ginebra with a 96-95 win in Game 2 of their PBA Commissioner's Cup semifinals on Friday at the PhilSports Arena.

Lee hit a short jumper off the glass just before the game clock hit zero as the Hotshots escaped with the win to tie the Manila Clasico semis at one win apiece.

Lee had his intended pass to Calvin Abueva deflected, but the former quickly recovered the ball and put it up to the rim.

Lee's heroics also canceled out that of Stanley Pringle, who earlier hit a three-pointer with 5.1 seconds left to give the Gin Kings their last taste of the lead at 95-94.

Lee finished with 24 points on 9-for-13 field goals, two rebounds, and four assists for Magnolia, which assured that there will be a Clasico playoff game at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay once the league shifts action there on Wednesday night.

Nick Rakocevic bounced back from his ejection in Game 1 and added 23 points, 20 rebounds, two assists, three blocks, and one steal.

Justin Brownlee also had a bounce-back game of his own, leading Ginebra with 34 points, four rebounds, five assists, two steals, and two blocks.

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