NorthPort advances to PBA semis after defeating Magnolia 113-110

NorthPort advanced to the PBA Season 49 Commissioner's Cup semifinals after defeating Magnolia 113-110 in a hard-fought match on Thursday at Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

This victory marks NorthPort's first semis appearance in six years and only its third overall since franchise inception, with players expressing determination to prove their worth.

NorthPort overcame a late Hotshots comeback by outscoring Magnolia 36-15 in the third quarter, driven by Kadeem Jack’s leadership with 30 points, 10 rebounds, five steals, and three blocks.

Arvin Tolentino contributed significantly with 25 points, while Evan Nelle and Cade Flores also scored in double figures, helping NorthPort fend off a Magnolia rally led by Paul Lee's late scoring spree.

NorthPort will face either Meralco or Ginebra in the semifinals; currently, Meralco leads the series against Ginebra by a score of 1-0.