PBA: Magnolia sizzles late to pip NorthPort, regain solo 1st

Zav Lucero has formally emerged as Magnolia's new star as he remained solid even if he got the start in Candon. PBA Images

By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA--Magnolia is once again the lone number one team in the PBA Philippine Cup standings after pulling away late to beat NorthPort, 106-97, on Saturday night at the Candon City Arena.

The Hotshots waxed hot midway through the fourth quarter, opening a 14-2 run to open a 103-90 cushion with 3:54 remaining and holding off the Batang Pier down the stretch.

Mainly playing as the sixth man seven games in, Zav Lucero got the start for Magnolia and led the way with 20 points, eight rebounds, two assists, two blocks, and three steals.

Paul Lee added 16 points on 5-of-9 shooting, including 2-for-5 from four-point range, five rebounds, and six assists off the bench as the Hotshots also formally booked their place in the quarterfinals.

William Navarro put up 27 points on 8-of-13 field goals and 11-of-11 free throws, 13 rebounds, three assists, and four steals to lead NorthPort, which fell to 1-6.

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