MAGNOLIA Chicken Timplados defeated Converge, 107-100, on Wednesday in a tune-up game at the Gatorade Hoops Center in Mandaluyong City as part of the buildup to 2024-25 PBA Commissioner’s Cup.

Ricardo Ratliffe played a big factor in the win but it was the bench that held up Hot shots in the lead in the final quarter by thwarting a Jordan Heading-led comeback bid by the FiberXers.

Peter Alfaro made key baskets late, including a three-pointer to decide the final score for head coach Chito Victolero’s wards.

Layups by Heading made it a 102-98 and 104-100 ball game after Converge trailed by a wide margin throughout the game.

Magnolia also defeated Blackwater in a tune-up game a few days ago. Incidentally, the Hotshots will start the conference against Bossing on Thursday, November 27 at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

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The FiberXers, meanwhile, are part of the opening doubleheader where they face Terrafirma on Wednesday, November 27 at the Philsports Arena.

The two teams will play in the Commissioner’s Cup on Dec. 1 at the Ynares Center.

PHOTO: Reuben Terrado

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