Ian Sangalang topscored in the Magnolia Hotshots’ win over the NorthPort Batang Pier inside the Angeles University Foundation Sports Arena and Cultural Center.
Magnolia’s Ian Sangalang goes for a strong finish against Kelly Nabong of NorthPort. (Photo from PBA)
With a hard-earned 83-76 victory over the Batang Pier, the Hotshots are now riding an impressive five-game winning streak. Sangalang came up with a game-high 23 markers and 9 rebounds, including a couple of clutch buckets that sealed the win for Magnolia.
Entering this game with tons of momentum on their side, Magnolia didn’t waste time as they built a 24-15 advantage in the opening frame. They extended that to a 14-point lead at the end of the third quarter, and was on their way to a cruising victory.
But NorthPort would come storming back, and a Kevin Ferrer three-pointer trimmed Magnolia’s advantage to only four as the game entered its crucial minutes. Then Sangalang answered with a basket and a split from the free throw line to give the Hotshots enough cushion.
NorthPort’s Christian Standhardinger scores against Sangalang and Justin Melton of Magnolia. (Photo from PBA)
Paul Lee, who was waxing hot in their previous games, scored only 14 markers but hauled in 6 rebounds and dished out 8 assists. Jackson Corpuz, Rome Dela Rosa and Aris Dionisio tallied 10 points apiece.
Christian Standhardinger led the charge for NorthPort with a double-double performance of 18 points and 17 boards, while Ferrer drilled four triples on his way to 18 markers. The loss drops the Batang Pier to a 1-8 record, eliminating them from playoff contention.
SCORES
Magnolia (83) – Sangalang 23, Lee 14, Corpuz 10, Dionisio 10, Dela Rosa 10, Jalalon 6, Calisaan 4, Barroca 4, Banchero 2, Melton 0, Reavis 0
NorthPort (76) – Standhardinger 18, Ferrer 18, Cruz 8, Nabong 8, Elorde 7, Manganti 6, Subido 5, Taha 3, Revilla 3, Guinto 0, Lanete 0
