by Jonas Terrado
BINAN, Laguna – Greg Slaughter had 12 points and six rebounds in his return while import Chuck Garcia produced 18 points, eight rebounds and four assists after two subpar performances and Barangay Ginebra San Miguel beat Blackwater, 105-91, for its first victory in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup at the Alonte Sports Arena here.
Slaughter made a good account of himself in 25 minutes after missing the past 10 games dating back to the Philippine Cup eliminations due to a severe left ankle sprain while Garcia showcased his dominant form after dismal showings in losses to Rain or Shine and TNT KaTropa left Ginebra fans begged for management to bring back beloved import Justin Brownlee.
Kevin Ferrer also came through for Ginebra with 21 points on five triples to improve to 1-2 while keeping Blackwater winless after five games this conference.
Jarrid Famous finished with 25 points and 17 rebounds but the Elite continued their slump in the second game under new coach Bong Ramos.
Roi Sumang scored 18 points while Paul Zamar, who came off a stint with Thai club Mono Vampire of the ASEAN Basketball League, fulfilled his lifelong dream of playing in the PBA and turned in 15 points and six rebounds for the Elite.
GINEBRA 105 – Ferrer 21, Garcia 18, J. Aguilar 13, Slaughter 12, Thompson 11, Tenorio 10, Caguioa 8, Mercado 8, Devance 2, R. Aguilar 2, Manuel 0, Mariano 0, Taha 0, Caperal 0.
BLACKWATER 91 – Famous 25, Sumang 18, Zamar 15, Maliksi 10, Erram 8, Digregorio 7, Belo 4, Marcelo 2, Palma 2, Jose 0, Cruz 0, Sena 0, Pinto 0.
Quarters: 32-27; 64-41; 87-65; 105-91.
