Magnolia wins fourth straight in Philippine Cup, beats Phoenix 118-99

Magnolia secured its fourth consecutive victory in the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup, defeating Phoenix 118-99 on Saturday in Zamboanga City.

Mark Barroca, celebrating his birthday, led Magnolia's balanced attack with 18 points, six rebounds, and five assists, while Ian Sangalang contributed a team-high 20 points for the Hotshots.

Zav Lucero added a double-double of 17 points and 11 rebounds, and Paul Lee chipped in 17 points to help Magnolia maintain its double-digit lead throughout the game.

Magnolia took control early in the second quarter with a backbreaking 20-5 run that turned their slim 45-43 lead into a significant advantage of 65-48 by halftime, and they continued to dominate until the end.

James Laput's 10 points and five rebounds along with timely shots from Russel Escoto helped Magnolia close out the game despite Phoenix's late surge led by Kai Ballungay (25 points, 15 rebounds) and RR Garcia (22 points).