PBA: Magnolia scores comfortable win over NorthPort

MANILA, Philippines–Magnolia pounced on NorthPort right from the onset and cruised to a 112-74 win that made it three wins in a row to start the PBA Commissioner’s Cup on Friday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Import Tyler Bey had 25 points, eight rebounds, six assists, four steals and two blocks as the Hotshots continued their unbeaten start heading into the marquee clash with Barangay Ginebra.

The Hotshots and Gin Kings square off on Sunday at the Big Dome.

Mark Barroca had 17 points and four assists, Paul Lee finished with 16 points, five rebounds and six assists while Jio Jalalon added 11 points, four rebounds, five assists and three steals for Magnolia.

A 28-8 first quarter was all Magnolia needed to turn a battle of teams that won their first two games into a blowout.

From 13-7 in the first five minutes, the Hotshots racked up 15 points while the Batang Pier scored just one the rest of the period.

NorthPort suffered its first defeat after starting the import-flavored tournament with wins over Terrafirma and Rain or Shine.

At some point, Magnolia led by 38 points.

Arvin Tolentino, among those responsible for the impressive start, produced 22 points, seven rebounds and two assists for the Batang Pier.

Import Venky Jois added 16 points, eight rebounds, three assists and two steals for NorthPort.