“I felt like a rookie again,” LA Tenorio said after helping Barangay Ginebra force a Game 7 against San Miguel

Barangay Ginebra San Miguel needed a miracle to defeat the San Miguel Beermen in Game 6 of their Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) semifinals at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Sunday, July 6 — and they got it from the league’s very own “Iron Man,” LA Tenorio.

Barangay Ginebra stunned San Miguel, 88–87, coming from behind as Tenorio drained a game-winning three-pointer to complete a dramatic victory. The 40-year-old veteran changed the course of the game after coming off the bench in the fourth quarter to score 11 points — including the clutch shot with 3.1 seconds left on the clock.

Tenorio, who has seen limited action for Ginebra in the Philippine Cup, made the most of his time on the court. He played just 9 minutes and 40 seconds but made an immediate impact, shooting 4-of-5 from the field, including a perfect 3-of-3 from beyond the arc, while also adding two rebounds and two assists.

ALL SMILES FOR THE GIN-ERAL!

LA Tenorio is all smiles after sinking the game-winner for Ginebra to notch an 88-87 win vs. San Miguel Beer in the semis.

To Game 7, they go. | @MeloFuertesINQ

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The 40-year-old, who also serves as the team’s playing assistant coach, admitted after the game that he felt rookie jitters as he entered from the bench in the fourth quarter.

“It’s like what coach Tim said: Miracles do happen. Honestly, I felt like a rookie again — shaking, going to the scorer’s table. Because as a rookie, you want to make something happen, help the team, and have an impact,” Tenorio said after the game.

“Miracles do happen not only in this game, but in my personal life. I truly believe that. That’s why every time I step on the court, I try to make something happen as a leader of the team,” he added.

The personal battle Tenorio refers to is his fight against stage 3 colon cancer. He was declared cancer-free in September 2024 and continues to play an important role for both club and country.

With the best-of-seven semifinal series now tied at 3–3, the do-or-die Game 7 is a winner-takes-all clash scheduled for Wednesday, July 9, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

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