Hotshots go for equalizer vs Beermen

MANILA, Philippines – Even though Magnolia finally notched a win in their PBA Commissioner’s Cup series versus San Miguel, Hotshots coach Chito Victolero stressed they still have a long way to go against the fancied Beermen.

“We only have one win. We have nothing to celebrate,” Victolero told reporters in Filipino after the Hotshots’ 88-80 Game 3 win on Wednesday to avoid a 0-3 pit.

“We’re still down in the series. We just need to rest and recover, and prepare for Game 4,” he added.

The crucial Game 4 will tip off Friday night at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, with Magnolia going for the equalizer.

Hotshots ace Mark Barroca also echoed the need to focus on tying the series up.

“We have to stay [level], not too high and not too low. That’s what we will do, regroup for the next game,” said the guard.

Defense will continue to be the focal point for the Hotshots, as they try to tie the series up.

After the Game 3 win, Victolero lauded Barroca and import Tyler Bey for their defensive efforts.

“[Barroca] really started the defensive energy of the team, and also Tyler Bey, who did a good job on Boatwright. But, everyone stepped up defensively,” the coach said.

Magnolia was able to bag Game 3 despite low-scoring effort that resulted in just 11 points to go with six rebounds.

However, Magnolia’s import was able to keep up with his counterpart Bennie Boatwright.

“It’s the playoffs, so I’m just really giving it my all. I just played through whatever it is. Whatever coach asks me to do, I am going to do it,” Bey told reporters after the game.

“I just had to step up tonight, we don’t want to go down 0-3… I just wanna win. I don’t really care about nothing else.”