Barangay Ginebra Gin Kings’ Scottie Thompson during a PBA Commissioner’s Cup quarterfinals game against Meralco Bolts. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines—Ginebra veteran guard Scottie Thompson barely played in the Gin Kings’ last elimination game in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup.
jokerscm slotsSo when Thompson played his usual minutes in Game 1 of the quarterfinals, the former league MVP showed what he was all about leading Ginebra to a huge win over pesky Meralco at Araneta Coliseum on Wednesday.
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FEATURED STORIES SPORTS Alex Eala bows out of W125 Mumbai SPORTS NBA: LeBron's old message to Luka won't change as Lakers teammates SPORTS PBA: Scottie Thompson leads Ginebra past Meralco and closer to semisThompson said that the longer rest from the squad’s last game helped him get back his stamina that was immediately put to the test in the Gin Kings’ 100-92 grindout win.
“That rest became key. That was a big thing not just for me but for us because this is the playoffs now,” said Thompson in Filipino. “That rest was so crucial for us.”
Article continues after this advertisementThompson only scored two points and notched three assists in Ginebra’s last elimination round game against Meralco.
Article continues after this advertisementBarangay Ginebra Gin Kings’ Scottie Thompson during a PBA Commissioner’s Cup quarterfinals game against Meralco Bolts. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
The Perpetual Help product this time unloaded 23 points, seven rebounds, six assists, four steals and a block to open his team’s quarterfinals’ bid and push Ginebra closer to the semifinals.
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But it wasn’t just Thompson who benefitted from the extra days as the rest of the guys also regained their legs.
Article continues after this advertisement“I think that was huge because we were able to rest not just our starters but also our main guys,” said assistant coach Richard Del Rosario, speaking for coach Tim Cone.
“You’re talking about playing a game every other day so that was crucial. We would take every advantage we can get against Meralco,” he added.
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Ginebra aims to close out the series on Friday at Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Game 2 vs. Meralco.
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