PBA: Japeth Aguilar helps Ginebra shut down Magnolia

Ginebra forward Japeth Aguilar during a game against Magnolia in the PBA Philippine Cup.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines—In a highly-anticipated clash, Barangay Ginebra kept fierce rival Magnolia in check thanks in large part to the efforts of Japeth Aguilar, who played a key role in the Gin Kings’ defensive scheme on Sunday in the PBA Philippine Cup.

With rangy Aguilar patrolling the paint, the Gin Kings limited the Hotshots’ firepower in a 87-77 win for their third victory in four games.

“On defense, like coach reminded us, it’s our team identity. We’re a defensive team first. It’s a team effort, most of the guys stepped up in this game. It’s always hard to play against Magnolia,” said Aguilar, who was recently named co-MVP of the 2024 PBA All-Star Game in Bacolod.

SCHEDULE: 2024 PBA Philippine Cup

The 37-year-old Aguilar finished with 16 points, nine rebounds, three assists and a block.

Ginebra held Magnolia, which put up 106 points in a 31-point win over Converge in its season debut last March 16, to just 34 percent from the field, including 6-of-22 from downtown.

Ginebra forward Japeth Aguilar.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

Aguilar came alive on offense in the second half after only scoring two points in the first two quarters.

“I adjusted in the second half because I was forcing my shots in the first half and in the second, I was just taking the mid-range because they were rotating but since they were already in the paint, I tried to get those mid-range [shots].”

“It took me a long way just to be in this position. I’m trying to be consistently healthy and working outside the court. I’m trying to get my conditioning back again.”

But despite an impressive showing against a formidable Magnolia squad, Ginebra coach Tim Cone thinks the Gin Kings are still far from their desired form.

“I don’t think that we’re exactly where we want to be as a team. I think Japeth would say that also. We expect to get better as the conference goes along but you’re always battling for the top two spots,” said Cone after improving to a 3-1 card.