Magnolia Snaps Skid Behind Chapman's 39-Point Debut Performance

Magnolia finally found its groove in the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup as import Clint Chapman put on a dominant performance, leading the Hotshots to a 121-109 win over the winless Macau team on Saturday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. The victory snapped a frustrating six-game losing streak dating back to last conference.

Chapman, in his debut game, was a force to be reckoned with, finishing with 39 points and 15 rebounds. His scoring onslaught included 12 consecutive points during a pivotal third-quarter stretch that helped Magnolia pull away. Chapman was efficient, making 15 of 26 field goals, including two three-pointers, and hitting 7 of 10 free throws in just 32 minutes.

"I’ve been waiting for this moment. It’s been a while," said Magnolia head coach LA Tenorio after finally securing their first win of the conference. "We needed a performance like this to get us going."

Chapman set the tone early, scoring the game's first basket and continuing his offensive explosion with 11 points in the first quarter. But it was in the third period where he truly took charge, propelling Magnolia to a 19-3 run, which turned a slim halftime lead into a commanding advantage.

Despite a late push by Macau, led by Chon Pong Lao, who drained eight three-pointers to finish with 24 points, the Hotshots held firm. Macau tied the game at 94-all with 5:37 remaining, but Magnolia's young core responded in the clutch. Zavier Lucero and Jerom Lastimosa delivered back-to-back three-point plays to give the Hotshots a six-point cushion. Mark Barroca then contributed timely baskets, and Chapman capped off the decisive stretch with a clutch floater, extending the lead to 106-99 with just over three minutes left. From there, Magnolia controlled the game and closed out the win.

Lucero added 23 points and nine rebounds, while Lastimosa chipped in with 20 points. The Hotshots’ young stars provided ample support for Chapman’s dominant debut.

For Macau, Tony Mitchell had a double-double performance with 22 points and 14 rebounds, while Damian Chongqui added 20 points and 10 rebounds. Shackelford finished with 19 points, but despite their strong efforts, Macau’s search for their first win continues under new head coach Marcus Elliott.

Magnolia (1-3) now looks to build on this victory when they face Terrafirma on April 7, with hopes of turning their season around. Meanwhile, Macau (0-4) will look for their first win against powerhouse San Miguel in their next outing.