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Japeth Aguilar slams over Raymond Almazan. PBA Images |
BINAN--Ginebra turned to its defense late to take down Meralco even with Akil Mitchell back, 100-92, in Game 1 of their PBA Commissioner's Cup quarterfinal series on Wednesday night at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.
One week after their elimination round clash whose result essentially sealed their playoff meeting, the Gin Kings held the Bolts scoreless in the final four minutes to get a repeat.
Scottie Thompson and Justin Brownlee each scored 23 points for Ginebra, which can sweep the best-of-three series on Friday night at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila.
Chris Newsome put up 20 points, four rebounds, four assists, and one steal, while Mitchell, who returned after sitting out the last three games in all competitions due to back spasm, added 19 points, 14 rebounds, six assists, and three steals for Meralco.
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