Magnolia Hotshots clinch key win over Hong Kong Eastern, improve to 5-6

The Magnolia Hotshots secured a crucial victory over Hong Kong Eastern with a score of 107-78 on Sunday at the Ynares Center, keeping their playoff hopes alive.

Magnolia's defense was key, limiting Hong Kong to just 31 points in the second period while scoring 50 themselves to extend their lead significantly.

Ricardo Ratliffe nearly recorded a triple-double with 25 points, 16 rebounds, and seven assists, crucial for Magnolia’s surge ahead.

Magnolia's young players also contributed greatly, with Zavier Lucero and Jerom Lastimosa each scoring 20 points.

The win improved Magnolia's standing to 5-6 in the conference, tightening the race for seventh and eighth seeds in the playoffs, while Hong Kong Eastern dropped to a 7-4 record.

Magnolia head coach Chito Victolero emphasized the importance of defense and urgency, stating that their survival depended on it as they fight for playoff spots.

With this victory, Magnolia now faces another must-win game against Meralco on January 31 in what could be a decisive clash for playoff positioning.