MANILA, Philippines – The Magnolia Hotshots secured their place in the quarterfinals of the 2025 PBA Philippine Cup after a hard-fought 106–97 victory against the NorthPort Batang Pier in an out-of-town clash held at the Candon City Arena in Ilocos Sur on Saturday. With the win, Magnolia improved their record to 7–1, taking sole possession of the top spot in the standings and confirming their strong return to form after suffering a rare loss to Rain or Shine in their previous outing.

It was a game that tested Magnolia’s composure and depth. NorthPort, despite missing key players due to injuries and illnesses, came out with determination and even controlled most of the middle quarters. Led by Wil Navarro’s 27-point, 13-rebound double-double, the Batang Pier showed grit and refused to back down. Sidney Onwubere added 19 points, while Josh Munzon and Jio Jalalon chipped in with 14 and 16 points, respectively. The Batang Pier led by as much as eight in the third quarter, using aggressive defense and sharp perimeter shooting to challenge the Hotshots.

But when it mattered most, Magnolia responded with poise and precision. Paul Lee was at the heart of the fourth-quarter rally, showcasing why he remains one of the league’s most feared clutch performers. With the game tied at 85-all, Lee knocked down a tough corner triple while drawing a foul, converting a four-point play that ignited a decisive run. Moments later, he delivered another four-point sequence and a long three-pointer to create separation. Lee finished with 16 points, six assists, and five rebounds in a well-rounded performance that helped swing the momentum back in Magnolia’s favor.

Zavier Lucero led the Hotshots in scoring with 20 points and eight rebounds, providing a steady offensive presence throughout the game. His versatility as a stretch forward continues to be a valuable asset for Magnolia’s system. Veteran guard Mark Barroca also stepped up with 15 points, seven assists, and four rebounds, orchestrating the offense with his trademark control and experience. Rookie Pete Alfaro delivered 13 points, highlighted by two rare four-point plays, while Jerom Lastimosa and Aris Dionisio contributed 10 points apiece off the bench.

The victory highlighted the Hotshots’ ability to dig deep and respond under pressure. Despite trailing for much of the second and third periods, Magnolia never panicked. Head coach Chito Victolero praised the team’s composure and teamwork, noting that the players remained focused on executing their game plan rather than forcing individual plays. The coaching staff also emphasized defense in the final stretch, forcing NorthPort into rushed shots and turnovers during a crucial run midway through the fourth quarter.

With the win, Magnolia became the first team to clinch a spot in the quarterfinals of the All-Filipino conference. Their 7–1 record currently places them at the top of the standings, and with three games left—against Barangay Ginebra, NLEX, and TNT—the team remains in a strong position to secure a top-two finish and the twice-to-beat advantage in the next round.

The game also served as a test of Magnolia’s roster depth. With star forward Calvin Abueva still sidelined due to injury, other players had to step up, and they did so effectively. The emergence of young contributors like Lucero, Alfaro, and Lastimosa offers optimism for the Hotshots as they prepare for the more intense battles of the playoffs.

For NorthPort, the loss dropped their record to 1–6, putting their playoff hopes in jeopardy. Although the Batang Pier showed resilience and executed well for much of the game, the lack of depth and experience showed in the final minutes. Head coach Bonnie Tan acknowledged the challenges faced by the team due to injuries but commended his players for their effort and fighting spirit.

With only a few games remaining in the elimination round, NorthPort will need to win out and hope for favorable outcomes from other teams to keep their quarterfinal hopes alive. Their next matches are crucial, and the team must improve its endgame execution if it hopes to break through.

As the league inches closer to the playoff phase, the Hotshots are peaking at the right time, backed by a balanced offense, veteran leadership, and youthful energy.