Batang Pier who lost their first game against the Beerman faced the Hotshots, who just came up with a blow-out win against the revamped Kings.
Global Port Batang Pier had a strong start. Taja is on the Hotshots first five lineup replacing Reavis because of a finger injury. However, Taja is still adjusting as Jensen continued scoring with a 10-1 lead for Global Port (GB).
GP's strong man-to-man defense seems to be effective early in the game. Pringle took advantage of the Barroca matchup. GB still leads 14-7 6:13 minutes remaining in a fast-pace first quarter. GB maintained its hot shooting increasing the lead to 10 (21-11) under 3 minutes. Torres hits a three-point for Hotshots. This guy is a promising player - good pick for Purefoods.
Notable play in the quarter was Pingris' double pump fake less than 21 seconds of the first quarter but Romeo drives one on the other side to keep the lead 24-17.
Second quarter was supposed to be Hotshots comeback play. Torres is still doing great in both defense and offense. Pingris used his body and experience to help Hotshots’ struggling offense. However, Kramer of GB shoots three consecutive field goals that brought the lead back to seven. James Yap is helping with his great moves again but GB is still hot in their shooting.
Pingris continues to battle inside and helps cut the lead to only two at the end of the 1st half. 48-46, GB leads.
