Hotshots Dominate Titan Ultra, Reclaim No. 7 Spot

Magnolia Hotshots kept their quarterfinal hopes alive in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup, delivering a convincing 106–84 victory over Titan Ultra on Wednesday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

The Hotshots seized control early and never looked back, exploding for 34 points in the second quarter to build a commanding 61–41 halftime lead. They maintained their dominance throughout the second half, securing a much-needed bounce-back win after their emotional loss to Rain or Shine last Sunday.

The victory improved Magnolia to a .500 record and allowed them to regain the No. 7 spot in the standings, overtaking San Miguel Beer.

First-year head coach LA Tenorio highlighted the importance of character and urgency following the previous defeat.

“I challenged the team na it's really a test of character for us, on how we bounce back from that kind of loss,” said Tenorio. “It was a big loss for us. Every game now is do-or-die, so we have to show sense of urgency, focus, and discipline in everything we do.”

Magnolia’s balanced offense proved too much for Titan Ultra, with five players scoring in double figures. Clint Chapman led the way with 31 points, eight rebounds, and six assists. Zav Lucero contributed 19 points and eight rebounds, while Javi Gomez de Liano delivered his best game of the conference, exploding for a season-high 18 points (including three four-pointers), five rebounds, and three assists to earn Player of the Game honors.

Jerom Lastimosa added 16 points, four rebounds, and four assists, and Yukien Andrada chipped in 11 points. Impressively, 13 of the 14 players who saw action scored at least two points.

“This is a big win for us. But hindi pa rito natatapos,” Tenorio added. “We can be happy today but tomorrow we have to focus on our next game.”

Gomez de Liano echoed his coach’s sentiments: “Nakakamiss. But like what Coach LA said, anyone can really contribute at any given game. It’s just all about getting ready for the opportunity.”

Magnolia will now prepare for crucial games against TNT on May 5 and Meralco on May 10 as they fight for better positioning in the final stretch of the eliminations.

For Titan Ultra, the loss dropped them to 2–8, officially eliminating them from quarterfinal contention along with Blackwater and guest team Macau. Michael Gilmore led the Giant Risers with 31 points and 14 rebounds, while Joshua Munzon added 24 points. Jerrick Balanza contributed 12 points off the bench in the team’s fifth straight defeat.