Gin Kings Roll to Third Straight Win, Down Dyip 111-103

Ginebra extended its winning streak to three games with a 111-103 victory over Terrafirma in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup on Saturday at the Ynares Center II in Montalban.

The Gin Kings came out hot from beyond the arc, draining five three-pointers in the first quarter to set the tone. However, it was in the third period where they truly took control, outscoring the Dyip by 14 points.

Leading by just six at halftime, Ginebra erupted for 35 points in the third quarter, opening up a commanding 91-71 advantage heading into the final frame. That explosive run sealed the win, moving Ginebra into a three-way tie for third place with TNT and Meralco at 5-2.

Justin Brownlee was outstanding, posting 28 points on an efficient 5-of-6 shooting from beyond the arc, adding nine rebounds, three assists, and two steals without a turnover. RJ Abarrientos and Stephen Holt each contributed 17 points, providing strong playmaking and defensive energy. Scottie Thompson also chipped in with 10 points, six assists, and four rebounds to help lead the charge.

Head coach Tim Cone acknowledged the team’s initial uncertainty in the unfamiliar venue but credited the players’ rhythm for settling the squad early in the game.

“This is our first time here, so we were trying to figure things out,” Cone said. “RJ hit that first three, Justin got going, and everything kind of followed from there.”

With the win, Ginebra now shifts its focus to the crucial stretch of the elimination round, starting with their matchup against Blackwater on April 24 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, as they look to secure a top-four finish.

“We’ve got important games coming up,” Cone added. “We just need to stay focused and take care of business because any team can beat you on any given night.”

For Terrafirma, their losing streak extended to five games despite a strong 27-point performance from Jerrick Ahanmisi. Shawn Umali contributed 15 points, while Mubashar Ali posted a double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds on a tough shooting night. Paolo Hernandez, in his return, added 12 points, but it wasn’t enough to prevent another loss.

The Dyip will look to break their skid against second-placed NLEX on April 25 at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium, facing a tough challenge against the 6-1 squad.