Magnolia Hotshots defeat Barangay Ginebra in Manila Clasico

Magnolia Hotshots secured an 88-73 victory over rival Barangay Ginebra at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, keeping their playoff hopes alive and moving into a three‑way tie for third place in Group B of the PBA Governors’ Cup. Zavier Lucero led the Hotshots with 24 points and 10 rebounds, while import KJ Buffen added 23 points and Ian Sangalang contributed 16.

Freshly signed big man Clifford Jopia thanked point guard LA Tenorio for the opportunity that revived his career after a period as a free agent. Jopia, who signed a one‑year contract with Magnolia, is averaging about 11 minutes per game and sees his role as helping the team’s second unit and defense.