MANILA, Philippines -- The Magnolia Hotshots punched their ticket to the PBA Philippine Cup quarterfinals after pulling away late against the Terrafirma Dyip, 108-100, in a crucial matchup Friday at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.
Ian Sangalang and Mark Barroca came up big for the Hotshots, who arrested a two-game losing streak, scoring 23 and 21 markers, respectively.
Rafi Reavis also turned back the clock with a double-double of 10 points and 13 rebounds in a surprise start.
With the Dyip trailing by just one, 98-99, with 2:34 remaining in the game following a 3-pointer by Stephen Holt, Sangalang had a big layup to push Magnolia’s lead to three, 101-98.
Holt tried to tie the game up with a deep trey, but missed.
On the other end, Barroca danced with Juami Tiongson then pulled up from deep to grab a six point lead, 104-98, with a minute and 20 seconds remaining.
Tiongson was fouled in the next possession, but he muffed both free throws. Barroca, then, plunged in a dagger floater for an eight point advantage, 106-98, with less than a minute to go.
Free throws by Lee iced the game.
Stephen Holt carried the Dyip with a career-high 32 points off of 10-of-18 shooting. Tiongson had 14, while Isaac Go and Javi Gomez de Liano chipped in 13 apiece.
Terrafirma ended their conference with a 5-6 win-loss record, as they await the remaining games of other teams for their playoff fate.
Magnolia climbed to 6-4 and is assured of a top six finish, according to PBA chief statistician Fidel Mangonon III.
The Hotshots will be facing the TNT Tropang Giga on Sunday, May 5, for their final elimination game.