Photo credit: PBA Media Bureau
San Miguel Beermen bounced back from back-to-back losses, taking a commanding 3-2 lead against the Magnolia Timplados Hotshots with a 108-98 victory in Game 5 of their Best-of-7 Finals series in the 2023-24 PBA Commissioner's Cup on Sunday, February 11, 2024 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. [VIDEO]
Jericho Cruz led the way, tying his career-high with 30 points on 11-of-22 shooting, including 8-of-14 from beyond the arc, to go along with 8 rebounds, four assists, and four steals.
The Beermen scored above 100 points once again, just like in Game 1 and 2 where they secured the win. They shot 36-of-87 from the field and made 16-of-43 three-pointers, as well as 20-of-27 from the free-throw line. They outrebounded the Hotshots 52-47 and recorded more assists, 12-8, while Magnolia shot 34-of-76 from the field, including 10-of-26 from beyond the arc, and 20-of-28 from the free-throw line. Now, the Beermen are one win away from the crown.
Bennie Boatwright Jr. finished with 21 points (6/14FG, 1/6 3pt, 8/8ft), 6 rebounds, and four assists while June Mar Fajardo, who experienced tightness in his left calf during Game 4, had a double-double of 18 points (4/8FG, 10/15ft), 15 rebounds, and one assist in 35 minutes of play. In the post-game press conference, SMB coach Jorge Gallent mentioned that despite doctors recommending rest, the veteran big man insisted on playing and did not miss Game 5.
Finals Game 6 is on Wednesday, February 14, at 7:30pm at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The Scores:
SAN MIGUEL 108 - Cruz 30, Boatwright 21, Fajardo 18, Enciso 15, Trollano 10, Perez 8, Lassiter 2, Tautuaa 2, Ross 2, Brondial 0.
MAGNOLIA 98 - Bey 34, Jalalon 17, Sangalang 15, Lee 12, Dionisio 6, Abueva 5, Barroca 4, Dela Rosa 3, Laput 2, Reavis 0, Tratter 0.
Quarters: 25-18, 48-41, 76-68, 108-98. [GAME STATS] | [GAME HIGHLIGHTS] | [JORDAN]
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