It was the best possible welcome-back gift Barangay Ginebra could offer skipper LA Tenorio on this memorable and emotional night.
In front of a good-sized crowd that's all rooting for the comebacking Tenorio, the Gin Kings collared a 110-99 victory over Terrafirma Sunday in the PBA Commissioner's Cup at the PhilSports Arena.
The defending champions unleashed a 28-13 salvo in the second to break away from the Dyip and held on en route to their third straight win and 4-1 overall and a share of third.
Coach Tim Cone's charges were surely driven to get this one for Tenorio, their beloved bet who played his first game after overcoming his battle with colon cancer.
The PBA's "Iron Man," whose last appearance was back in February in the Season 46 Governors' Cup, started and finished the game to applause from the appreciative audience. He finished with six points spiked by a 2-of-2 three-point shooting plus one rebound, three assists and one steal in 25 minutes and 52 seconds of action.
"Sobrang saya na nakabalik ako dito at saka panalo pa kami," said Tenorio, who had his family and support group, including college buddies, at ringside for his comeback gig.
Sponsored content: Tenorio's leadership and inspirational presence cushioned the impact of the absence of Scottie Thompson, who is sidelined by a leg contusion he sustained in their previous outing.
The veteran playmaker took centerstage at halftime to be recognized by PBA commissioner Willie Marcial, vice chairman Bobby Rosales and Ginebra governor Alfrancis Chua for his gallantry in his battle with the Big C.
"We know it's an arduous journey to get back. Started in tears, now we have such joy for him getting back," said Cone. "We missed him, we missed his leadership."
Tony Bishop (26-11) and Christian Standhardinger (24-10) took scoring cudgels for Ginebra.
Javi Gomez de Liano showed the way with 22 for the Dyip, who fell to three straight losses for 2-4 overall. (OL)
Sponsored content: The Scores:
Ginebra 110 - Bishop 26, Standhardinger 24, J. Aguilar 19, Malonzo 14, Ahanmisi 10, Tenorio 6, Pinto 6, Pessumal 3, Cu 2, Pringle 0, R. Aguilar 0, Gumaru 0
Terrafirma 99 - De Lia?o 22, De Thaey 18, Cari?o 14, Tiongson 13, Go 10, Holt 7, Ramos 4, Mina 3, Alolino 2, Calvo 2, Cahilig 2, Camson 2, Cahilig 0, Miller 0
Quarterscores: 25-29, 53-42, 83-68, 110-99.
