Ginebra beats NorthPort 2-0 in PBA semis

Barangay Ginebra secured a decisive 2-0 lead in their PBA Commissioner's Cup semifinals series against NorthPort Batang Pier with another dominant victory Friday evening at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.

Japeth Aguilar powered Ginebra with a season-high tying 31 points, eight rebounds, and an assist while Scottie Thompson contributed 16 points to maintain the double-digit lead throughout much of the game.

Despite barely having any rest over the past three weeks due to international commitments with Gilas Pilipinas, Aguilar played a crucial role in Ginebra's victory, scoring at a high clip despite NorthPort guard Joshua Munzon's skepticism about fatigue.

Ginebra led by as many as 35 points in the third quarter before NorthPort made a late comeback attempt that fell short with Kadeem Jack scoring 27 points and Will Navarro contributing 23 points for NorthPort.

Five Ginebra players scored in double digits, including Jamie Malonzo with 17 points and Troy Rosario with 11 points and eight rebounds.

Jeremiah Gray made his long-awaited return after recovering from a knee injury since July 2023, contributing six points, two rebounds, and a steal in nine minutes of play.

Coach Tim Cone emphasized the need for Ginebra to remain disciplined as they prepare for Game 3 on Sunday at the Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.