Manila Clasico Chapter: Gin Kings beat Magnolia to make the fourth spot their own

When an arena reverberates with the iconic “Ginebra” chants down the stretch, it’s more than just noise, it’s a signal, almost a script. Something shifts. Something usually magical happens.

Barangay Ginebra secured a pivotal 85–81 victory over Magnolia on Sunday night, June 1, 2025, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, clinching a spot in the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup quarterfinals. This win improved their record to 6–3, positioning them for a potential Top Four finish and a coveted win-once advantage in the quarterfinals. 

The latest chapter of Manila Clasico lived up to its legendary billing, delivering a heart-pounding finish that had fans roaring inside the Smart Araneta Coliseum. In a game that was tightly contested throughout, Barangay Ginebra seized control in the final moments with a clutch 9-2 run, turning a narrow lead into an 85–79 advantage with just 82 seconds remaining. It was a vintage Gin Kings finish, timely, composed, and electric.

As the “Ginebra” chants reverberated through the coliseum, the Gin Kings once again embodied their never-say-die spirit, rallying late, feeding off the crowd, and delivering in crunch time.

This win not only secured Ginebra’s playoff spot but also reinforced their reputation as one of the most clutch teams in Philippine basketball, with Jamie Malonzo adding a signature moment to his growing resume in red and white.

The Manila Clasico clash on June 1, 2025, was not just about big moments — it was a testament to Barangay Ginebra’s depth and balance, as multiple players stepped up in their 85–81 win over Magnolia.

Stat Breakdown – Ginebra’s Collective Effort

• Japeth Aguilar:
  17 points, 11 rebounds, a strong double-double performance, anchoring the paint on both ends.
• Troy Rosario:
  15 points, provided timely scoring bursts, giving Ginebra another reliable option offensively.
• RJ Abarrientos:
  10 points, efficient and energetic, helping maintain tempo and spacing.
• Jamie Malonzo:
  11 points, 5 rebounds, 2 steals,  delivered the game’s dagger shot in the final stretch, shining in the clutch.
• Maverick Holt:
  14 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists, quietly productive and effective on both ends.
• Scottie Thompson:
  Only 5 points, but grabbed 11 rebounds and dished 5 assists, classic Thompson, impacting the game in every non-scoring facet.
  

  Incredible HOLT!

  Stephen Holt is the ArenaPlus BPG!#PBAAngatAngLaban pic.twitter.com/pC9IbWcwIu

  — PBA (@pbaconnect) June 1, 2025

Magnolia’s Top Performers

• Ian Sangalang: 16 points, steady interior scoring.
• Zav Lucero: 16 points, aggressive offensively, leading the Hotshots’ effort.

This was a textbook Ginebra win, not reliant on one star, but on teamwide contributions and a late-game surge fueled by poise, defense, and clutch shot-making. Coach Tim Cone’s system thrives on unselfish basketball, and this game showcased it perfectly.

As they chase a Top Four finish and that win-once incentive in the quarterfinals, the Gin Kings are peaking at the right time, with everyone in sync.

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