PBA: Ginebra shuts down Phoenix to move closer to QF spot

Scottie Thompson put up an impressive performance to draw Ginebra closer to a playoff return. PBA Images

By Ivan Saldajeno

MAKATI—From a team on the verge of missing the PBA playoffs for the first time in nearly two decades, Ginebra will likely continue the streak after dropping Phoenix 106-89 on Sunday night at the Ynares Center 1 in Antipolo.

With two conditions to keep their quarterfinal hopes alive met earlier in the weekend, the Gin Kings dominated the Fuel Masters to get a temporary hold of fourth place in Group B.

Scottie Thompson led Ginebra, which overtook Meralco at 4-5, with 29 points on 9-for-13 shooting including 4-for-5 from long range, 10 rebounds, six assists, three steals, and two blocks.

Jordan Murphy added 28 points, 13 rebounds, two assists, and one block, while Japeth Aguilar and Jeremiah Gray each put up 12 markers, with Aguilar also collected 10 boards.

The Gin Kings can officially complete the playoff cast if they beat the Blackwater Bossing on Friday night.

Ginebra can still clinch a quarterfinal berth even with a loss as long as it keeps Blackwater's winning margin as close as possible, preferably by 23 points or less.

Marcellus Earlington led Phoenix, whose bid to chase for the top seed in Group B took a big blow after falling to 5-4, with 22 points, nine rebounds, two assists, and one steal.