Ginebra stifles TNT to open PBA Governors' Cup Finals

Jamie Malonzo soars over Paul Varilla for the putback slam. PBA Images
By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA--Ginebra drew first blood in the PBA Governors' Cup Finals after giving much of the 11,580 fans at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City a lot to be happy about on Easter Sunday with a 102-90 Game 1 win against TNT.

The Gin Kings made a mark also on the night Asia's first ever play-for-pay cagefest celebrated its 48th founding anniversary, holding the Tropang Giga to only 38 percent field goals and a conference-low on points.

Justin Brownlee led Ginebra with 31 points on 11-for-20 field goals including 6-of-11 on threes, 12 rebounds, four assists, and two blocks.

Jamie Malonzo added 21 points, eight rebounds, four assists, and one steal, while Christian Standhardinger chipped in 16 points, 11 rebounds, and two assists.

Scottie Thompson put up a triple-double of 10 points, 13 rebounds, and 11 assists.

Rondae Hollis-Jefferson erupted for 30 points, 20 rebounds, five assists, and two steals, while Mikey Williams added 23 points, two rebounds, and three assists for TNT.

Follow him on Twitter: @IvanSaldajeno