Photo credit: PBA

NorthPort Batang Pier seems unstoppable, even after a long holiday break. Their momentum continues, as they finally ended a lengthy losing streak against Barangay Ginebra Kings with a nail-biting 119-116 victory in the PBA Commissioner's Cup showdown at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig on Wednesday night.

Kadeem Jack, Arvin Tolentino, and Joshua Munzon were the stars of the night, each scoring over 27 points to lead NorthPort to their first win against Ginebra since December 2019. This win keeps NorthPort atop the standings with a solid 7-1 record.

The game was a rollercoaster, with Ginebra clawing back from an 18-point deficit. However, the Kings' efforts fell short due to a missed free throw and a crucial turnover by Justin Brownlee in the final seconds. This loss dropped Ginebra to 5-3, missing the chance to tie for third place with the Converge FiberXers at 6-2.

Jack delivered a standout performance with 32 points, Tolentino added 29, and Munzon contributed 27, helping NorthPort maintain their hot streak. Coach Bonnie Tan acknowledged the significance of this win, especially with upcoming tough matches against the likes of Meralco Bolts, Rain or Shine Elasto Painters, and San Miguel Beermen.

With a 7-1 record, NorthPort has secured a playoff spot and is now eyeing a Top Two finish for that coveted twice-to-beat advantage in the quarterfinals.

Despite their spirited comeback, Ginebra couldn't close the gap. Brownlee's missed free throw and a costly turnover in the dying seconds sealed their fate. Munzon’s free throw extended NorthPort's lead to 118-116 with just 7.9 seconds left. Brownlee's critical error gave NorthPort the final possession, and Jack's last-second basket ensured the victory, leaving the Batang Pier with a morale-boosting triumph to celebrate.