By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
The Magnolia Chicken Timplados began its PBA On Tour Preseason campaign with a convincing victory over the Blackwater Bossing, 117-83, last May 28, 2023, held at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.
Despite being undermanned after the Chicken Timplados opted to rest Jio Jalalon, Ian Sangalang, Calvin Abueva, and Russel Escoto, Magnolia still clinched a dominant victory and will look to carry their momentum until the 2023 season opener.
Reliable shooter Jerrick Ahanmisi provided the much-needed buckets for Magnolia and registered 14 points built from several three-point shots.
Ahanmisi was just in his groove against the disoriented Blackwater perimeter defense and lost his man a couple of times after Magnolia called an off-the-ball curl play to free him up.
Mark Barroca, one of Magnolia’s veteran leaders, also showed up despite playing in limited minutes to end up with 14 markers and six assists.
Barroca spearheaded Magnolia’s offensive snowball in the second half which ballooned their lead to as much as 40 points that officially fended off Blackwater in the game.
After receiving an early beating, the Bossing already waved the white flag early in the final frame to rest their starters for the next On Tour games.
Abu Tratter, Magnolia’s latest off-season acquisition from the Converge FiberXers, also balled out and showed his paint presence after chipping in 14 points and seven rebounds.
On the other hand, veteran big man bruiser James Sena led the Bossing with 11 points while scoring point guard Rashawn McCarthy added 10 points.
