Jamie Malonzo returns with emphatic dunk in Ginebra's win

After nearly nine months out due to a calf injury, Jamie Malonzo returned with an emphatic dunk during Barangay Ginebra’s 86-63 victory over Blackwater in the PBA Season 49 Commissioner's Cup on Sunday at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.

Malonzo contributed eight points and three rebounds while playing restricted minutes, as head coach Tim Cone slowly reintegrates him into the rotation, praising his hard work to get back on the court.

RJ Abarrientos highlighted Ginebra's strong third-quarter performance which extended their lead despite Blackwater's George King scoring 27 points.

Malonzo expressed relief and happiness after completing his comeback dunk, noting that he had been nervous but felt better once it was over.

Abarrientos emphasized that this victory marks the beginning of Ginebra’s preparation for the playoffs, aiming to solidify team cohesion with new players like Troy Rosario.