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A last-minute import replacement, former NBA player Jabari Bird delivers as Magnolia deals Rain or Shine its most lopsided loss in franchise history
LAGUNA, Philippines – The arrival of a new import appeared to breathe new life into Magnolia as it ripped Rain or Shine to shreds to level their PBA Governors’ Cup quarterfinals.
Jabari Bird turned in a solid PBA debut, steering the Hotshots to a 121-69 manhandling of the Elasto Painters at the Sta. Rosa Sports Complex here on Friday, September 27.
Bird spearheaded a second-quarter breakaway and finished with 22 points and 13 rebounds as Magnolia tied the best-of-five series at 1-1 and dealt Rain or Shine its most lopsided loss in franchise history.
A former NBA player who suited up for the Boston Celtics for one season, Bird took over the import reins from Rayvonte Rice, who averaged just 10.5 points on a 24% shooting in a brief two-game stint that both ended in losses.
“[He’s a] big factor. It’s not the numbers, but it’s all about the aura, the positive vibes of JB,” said Hotshots head coach Chito Victolero of Bird.
Bird scattered 8 points in a decisive 21-0 run to end the second period that broke the game wide open as Magnolia outscored the Elasto Painters, 32-5, in the quarter to mount a commanding 66-28 lead.
Calvin Abueva backstopped Bird with a double-double of 18 points and 10 rebounds on top of 2 assists and 2 steals, while four more Magnolia players scored in double figures in the 52-point thrashing.
The Scores
Magnolia 121 – Bird 22, Abueva 18, Sangalang 12, Barroca 11, Eriobu 11, Dela Rosa 11, Dionisio 9, Lucero 9, Mendoza 7, Laput 4, Lee 4, Balanza 2, Reavis 1, Alfaro 0, Ahanmisi 0, Escoto 0.
Rain or Shine 69 – Nocum 13, Lemetti 11, Asistio 7, Datu 7, Clarito 6, Santillan 6, Mamuyac 5, Tiongson 5, Fuller 4, Belga 4, Caracut 1, Escandor 0, Borboran 0, 0, Ildefonso 0, Villegas 0, Norwood 0.
Quarters : 34-23, 66-28, 88-49, 121-69.
– Rappler.com
