Sean Anthony was the highest scorer at 22 points – four of those being the most crucial free throws of the game during the fourth quarter. He also performed with eight rebounds, five steals, and four assists. Paolo Taha totalled 16 points, while Mo Tautuaa had a double-double at 14 points, 11 rebounds, and four assists. Jonathan Grey contributed a total of 14 points and four rebounds. Nico Elorde and Robert Bolick didn’t disappoint as well with 12 and 11 points respectively, while import Prince Ibeh provided 10 points, 13 rebounds, and four blocks.
Now, NorthPort stands at a 5-1 win-loss standing.
Their opponents, on the other hand, who were second placers in the most recently concluded Philippine Cup, are suffering from back-to-back losses. Ian Sanagalang kept the fight close with 21 points and 10 rebounds, aided by Robert Herndon who had 18. Recent addition James Farr made sure his new team did not miss the presence of previous import John Fields, as he added 11 points, 14 rebounds, four assists, and four steals for his team, while Paul Lee scored 16 points and eight assists.
Batang Pier head coach Pido Jarencio is happy with his team’s performance, saying in Filipino, “The players that stepped up, they delivered. They’re doing their share,” adding, “Not one, two, three people only. Everybody helped.” However, he explained that his “only concern was the injuries,” noting, “Good thing we have a week before our next game against Rain or Shine. It’s also good that momentum is on our side,” referring to Elorde and Tautuaa suffering from knee injuries mid-game.
Jarencio is in hopes that his players will be able to return from their injuries next Wednesday, June 19 at the Mall of Asia Arena against Rain or Shine, while Magnolia continues to search for their first win as they face the NLEX Road Warriors next Friday, June 14 at the Mall of Asia Arena.