Japeth Aguilar scores career-high 31 points to lead Ginebra past Phoenix

Japeth Aguilar scored a career-high 31 points to lead Barangay Ginebra to a 110-101 victory over Phoenix in the PBA Governors' Cup on Friday, September 6.

Aguilar's performance was highlighted by his role in the third quarter when he helped quell Phoenix's comeback attempt and restored order for Ginebra with a crucial dunk.

Ginebra head coach Tim Cone praised Aguilar's athleticism, noting that it is rare to see such performance from a player at his age, especially after the departure of Christian Standhardinger.

Justin Brownlee also contributed significantly with 23 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists, securing his 14th career triple-double in the process.

The win marked Ginebra's first consecutive victories this conference, improving their record to 3-2 in Group B while Phoenix remains winless after five games.

Aguilar has been a steady presence for Ginebra as they adjust to key changes in their roster and is currently averaging 20.4 points on an impressive 67% shooting with 6.6 rebounds per game.

Coach Cone noted that Aguilar is showing MVP-level play, leading all Gin Kings locals in scoring and demonstrating his elite status despite being one of the elder statesmen of the PBA.