By Adrian Stewart Co

Magnolia Hotshots overturned a 17-point deficit to seal a 63-60 overtime win over the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters in Game 7 of their 2019 Honda PBA Philippine Cup semifinal series last Sunday night at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

Down by as much as 17 points in the third period following a barrage of triples from the Painters, the Hotshots went on a run and narrowed the gap to 44-40 on back-to-back triples from Aldrech Ramos.

The Hotshots continued their run in the fourth to take a 50-48 lead on back-to-back shots from Ian Sangalang. Another hit by Sangalang and a triple from Rome dela Rosa surged Magnolia ahead to 55-52 before Rain or Shine forced the game into overtime on a Rey Nambatac trey.

The Hotshots opened the overtime period with back-to-back hits from Sangalang and Paul Lee for a 59-55 edge. Gabe Norwood’s triple pushed the deficit down to 59-58 before Rafael Reavis came up with a huge shot to extend Hotshots’ edge to 61-58.

Magnolia remained on top at 62-60 on two free throws by Rain or Shine’s Maverick Ahanmisi and split freebie by Reavis before the Painters’ James Yap was blocked on an attempt.

Sangalang then sealed the win with a free throw.

He finished the game with a double-double on 11 points and 15 rebounds, while Reavis added eight points and 20 rebounds./ASC, WDJ