Cone admits Ginebra's struggles in loss to former player Tenorio

Barangay Ginebra coach Tim Cone is eager to move past their opening day loss to LA Tenorio and Magnolia in the PBA's 50th season.

Cone expressed happiness for his former player Tenorio, who led Magnolia to an 80-73 victory over the Gin Kings in the Philippine Cup.

Despite the pre-game hype surrounding the coaching duel between Cone and Tenorio, Cone downplayed its significance, stating he views it similarly to facing other former colleagues and that the moment was much bigger for Tenorio.

Cone was visibly frustrated after the loss, admitting he didn't like how his players executed the game plan, especially with the Hotshots dictating the tempo for most of the game.

Ginebra never held the lead while Magnolia led by as much as 15, with the young guns Zavier Lucero, Jerom Lastimosa, and Javi Gomez de Liaño combining for 45 points.

Key players for Ginebra, Stephen Holt contributed 16 points and 17 rebounds, but Scottie Thompson was scoreless and Japeth Aguilar had a limited performance.

The Gin Kings struggled significantly with ball security, committing 21 turnovers during the game.

Cone cited excessive turnovers, insufficient defensive effort, and poor execution as major reasons for their disappointing performance.