RJ Abarrientos takes flight as Ginebra nips Phoenix to enter PBA Govs' Cup QFs

RJ Abarrientos scorched hot for Ginebra to eliminate Phoenix. PBA Images

By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA--RJ Abarrientos continued from where he left off as Ginebra whipped Phoenix, 112-96, to secure a spot in the PBA Governors' Cup quarterfinals on Wednesday night at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

Abarrientos, who used the dying moments of the Gin Kings' franchise-worst defeat to the San Miguel Beermen on Sunday night to build his confidence, zoomed against the Fuel Masters, taking charge for Ginebra with 24 points on 8-of-15 shooting including 5-of-9 total from long range, five rebounds, five assists, and one steal.

"Siguro ngayon, I'm just doing the right things coming from the bench," said Abarrientos.

In the second straight game Justin Brownlee was quiet, Japeth Aguilar and Scottie Thompson also stepped up for the Gin Kings, who are now at 6-3.

Aguilar tallied 21 points on 9-of-14 shooting, eight rebounds, four assists, one block, and one steal, while Thompson put up 20 points on 9-for-12 field goals, six rebounds, and six assists.

Jason Perkins and Sean Manganti each scored 18 points for Phoenix, which was officially eliminated from playoff contention after dropping to 1-8.

Follow him on X: @IvanSaldajeno