In his first game back after overcoming cancer, Ginebra’s captain receives a warm reception.

In the Kings’ PBA Commissioner’s Cup matchup with Terrafirma, coach Tim Cone made the decision to start the seasoned guard. Fans, relatives, and old teammates flocked to the PhilSports Arena to greet the returning player.

The game was eventually won by Ginebra, 110-99.

When Tenorio’s name was announced as a member of Ginebra’s starting lineup alongside import Tony Bishop, Christian Standhardinger, Jamie Malonzo, and Maverick Ahanmisi, the crowd erupted in cheers.

Sen. Bong Go, wife Chesca and their children, close friend Zanjoe Marudo, and former Ginebra teammates Mark Caguioa and Sol Mercado were among those present to welcome him back.

Despite appearing to have never stopped playing, he hasn’t played since February of this year, when he was initially diagnosed with the Big C.

Tenorio had two assists and a rebound in his twelve minutes of action during the first half, despite going 0-for-3 from the field. However, he quickly picked up the pace after the break, making two three-pointers to ignite Ginebra’s offensive in the manner of the past.

He was given a trophy at the break to commemorate his league record of 744 straight games played. Regrettably, this record was broken when he revealed his health condition in February of last year.

Commissioner Willie Marcial, Ginebra team governor Alfrancis Chua, PBA board vice-chairman Bobby Rosales, and his family joined Tenorio on stage.

Previously on Ginebra vs Terrafirma..

It also lifted Tenorio’s spirits upon his return to active duty following his cancer-free announcement in September of last year.

Tenorio was set up by Cone as a member of his starting lineup, and although this move fired up the Kings, sophomore Javi Gomez de Liano placed the Dyip ahead 29–25 at the end of the first session.

However, Tony Bishop and Japeth Aguilar combined to help the Kings outscore the Dyip, 28-14, in the second quarter, building an 11-point lead at the half. That was the best Terrafirma could do.

After that, it was all Ginebra.

For Ginebra, who were without the injured Scottie Thompson, Bishop finished with 26 points and 11 rebounds, Christian Standhardinger scored 24 points and 10 boards, and Aguilar added 19 points and 7 rebounds.

Terrafirma dropped to 2-4 after suffering their second straight loss.

With 22 points and seven assists, De Liano maintained his impressive performance to lead the Dyip, who also received 18 and 14 rebounds from import Thomas Hugo De Thaey.

The Scores

Ginebra 110 – Bishop 26, Standhardinger 24, Aguilar 19, Malonzo 14, Ahanmisi 10, Tenorio 6, Pinto 6, Pessumal 3, Cu 2, Pringle 0, R. Aguilar 0, Gumaru 0.

Terrafirma 99 – De Liano 22, De Thaey 18, Carino 14, Tiongson 13, Go 10, Holt 7, Ramos 4, Mina 3, Alolino 2, Cahilig 2, Calvo 2, Camson 2, Daquioag 0, Miller 0.

Quarter scores: 25-29; 53-42; 83-68; 110-99