MANILA, Philippines – The barangay Ginebra is no stranger to this place. With the back of the wall, public skepticism is growing, and momentum is ebbing away. However, the Gin Kings frequently manage to remind the league of their identity during times like these. That’s exactly what they accomplished in their 102-93 triumph over Phoenix Super LPG. Although it was by no means a flawless victory, it was the kind that revitalized a season that had started to falter due to inconsistent play.

Ginebra was in a precarious position in the standings going into the match. The losses had mounted. They had a strange rhythm. They appeared to be a team attempting to rediscover what had made them competitive. The Kings were in dire need of a victory to halt the decline, as the FIBA break was drawing near and important players were scheduled to report for national team duty. They also appeared to be a side that was committed to regaining their identity for extended periods of the game.

The spark that ignited the fuse was RJ Abarrientos. He played quickly and confidently after coming off the bench, making clutch baskets and containing Phoenix’s offense whenever they threatened to blow the game open. Although his 25 points came at the right time, it was his game-winning three in the closing minutes that really turned the tide in Ginebra’s favor after an 18-point advantage had vanished. The audience sensed the shift as Abarrientos stood up for that shot. The Kings played with fresh clarity after it fell.

He was immediately followed in influence by Troy Rosario and Stephen Holt. Holt was able to attack gaps and create looks for teammates by controlling possessions and reading Phoenix’s switches. With a final score of 17, it is evident that he is becoming more used to the method. Throughout the evening, Rosario worked the baseline and contributed 14 points, providing Ginebra with another dependable scoring option in pivotal moments. In addition, Jonathan Gray scored 13 points, providing a consistent offensive output that was especially helpful as Phoenix attempted to overwhelm Ginebra’s main producers.

The worth of Japeth Aguilar’s presence is more difficult to measure, even though his 11 points may seem insignificant in comparison to the others. He moved with the kind of vigor that boosts a team’s defensive performance, changed shots, and commanded space in the paint. He gave Ginebra just what the seasoned interior anchor needed.

Scottie Thompson put on one of those standout all-around efforts that are necessary for a victory like this, but don’t always garner media attention. He was a part of every possession, contributing 10 rebounds and 6 assists. He appeared determined to make an impact before the league pauses as one of the players getting ready to join Gilas Pilipinas. His ability to calm the team during Phoenix’s surges demonstrated his leadership.

Before halftime, the Kings had a double-digit lead and looked sharp. The movement of the ball was clear. They chose their shots carefully. Phoenix was forced into hurried decisions and contested looks by their defense. However, basketball momentum is brittle, and Phoenix wasn’t about to go gently.

Attacking mismatches and driving Ginebra’s defense into challenging rotations, Ricci Rivero exploded for 28 points. Jason Perkins gained mid-range positions by using his strength. Ken Tuffin supplied the hustle that frequently keeps Phoenix in games, while Kai Ballungay and Tyler Tio contributed perimeter shooting. Ginebra eased up, and the Fuel Masters slipped back in. The eighteen-point cushion disappeared. A tense and violent confrontation ensued from what had appeared to be a runaway.

At one point, Phoenix even took the lead. It seemed as though the game was tilting. Ginebra was under increasing strain once more. The Kings, however, steadied themselves this time. They pressured Phoenix into hurried three-pointers, tightened up defensively, and challenged shots more forcefully. Ginebra’s offense resumed its flow as her poise was restored. Abarrientos struck his blade. Holt struck a floater. In traffic, Thompson grabbed rebounds. Discipline, which the Kings have sometimes struggled with this conference, helped them end the game.

The victory comes at a crucial time for coach Tim Cone. Banking this win is important for confidence as well as the standings because he and Thompson will soon be joining national team commitments, leaving Ginebra without important players throughout training. It serves as a reminder to the rest of the team that even under extreme circumstances, they are still capable of competing, performing, and rising to the occasion.

Although the rankings are still close, Ginebra’s victory moves them up to third and fourth place, sharing seventh place with Meralco.