New import Chism leads Magnolia to rout off NLEX

MANILA — Magnolia may have finally found a more worthy replacement import in Wayne Chism.

The Hotshots’ fourth import this PBA Commissioner’s Cup made impressive stats as they bludgeoned the NLEX Road Warriors, 116-89, at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay on Wednesday night.

Chism fired 27 points to lead Magnolia, which preserved a hot start with a fourth quarter shutdown of NLEX.

Behind Chism and Paul Lee, the Hotshots opened a 34-18 lead after the first quarter.

Banking on Mac-Mac Tallo’s heroics, however, the Road Warriors opened the second quarter on a 19-5 run to cut the lead down to two, 39-37.

Magnolia closed out the first half on a 15-3 run to reopen a double-digit spread, 54-40, at halftime.

NLEX threatened to come back again, drawing to within three midway in the third period.

But Magnolia recovered in time to maintain control and finally repulsed NLEX with a 31-12 fourth quarter showing.

Chism also had eight rebounds, four assists, three blocks, and two steals, while Lee added 21 markers, four boards, six caroms, and one block for the Hotshots, who at 5-5 can officially clinch a quarterfinal seat with a win against the San Miguel Beermen on Saturday night.

Olu Ashaolu, who is supposed to be the Road Warriors’ Governors’ Cup import, also had an impressive debut, making 31 points, 12 rebounds, and one assist.