Munzon's Clutch Performance Powers Giant Risers Past Bossing

6 hours ago

Joshua Munzon came through in the clutch as Titan Ultra held off a late rally from Blackwater Bossing, securing a 102-98 victory on Wednesday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium, marking the PBA's 51st anniversary celebration.

Munzon led the charge with 25 points, including a crucial four-point play during an 8-2 closing run. His clutch basket, which gave Titan Ultra an 102-94 lead with 1:29 remaining, effectively sealed the win and thwarted Blackwater’s comeback hopes.

The victory was hard-earned for Titan Ultra, which saw its commanding 20-point lead slip away and even briefly trailed in the second half. However, Munzon’s timely heroics in the final moments helped the team improve to a 2-3 record in the conference.

Despite shooting just 6-of-20 from the field, Munzon made his impact felt at the free-throw line, converting 10 of 11 attempts, along with a crucial three-pointer and the decisive four-point shot.

“We just talked about it at halftime—basketball is like that. You build a lead, and then the opponent comes back. But I give credit to the players; they didn’t give up,” said head coach Rensy Bajar.

Import Michael Gilmore contributed 21 points and 15 rebounds, while Aris Dionisio added 11 points and six boards. Guards Fran Yu and Pao Javillonar both scored seven points, with Yu also contributing eight assists, five rebounds, and four steals in a well-rounded performance.

“It’s all about teamwork. We’re working together and playing as a unit,” Bajar added.

Blackwater, still recovering from a heavy defeat in their previous game, fell to 1-4 despite strong showings from imports Robert Upshaw and Sedrick Barefield, who each scored 25 points. Barefield briefly reignited Blackwater’s hopes by cutting the lead to 94-92 with 5:57 left, but Titan Ultra quickly responded with Munzon’s clutch finish.

Both teams will return to action next week, with Blackwater facing TNT Tropang 5G on April 14, while Titan Ultra takes on the Converge FiberXers on April 15 at the Ynares Center Antipolo.