source: PBA.PH
Fri, 11/06/2009 - 22:56 — junior
Johnny Abarrientos put in his share in a short-lived comeback from semi-retirement Friday as the crippled Barangay Ginebra team held its own against Barako Bull, pulling off a 94-86 win in the KFC PBA Philippine Cup at the Cuneta Astrodome.
Cyrus Baguio, Ronald Tubid and Rico Villanueva scored at least 14 points each as the Kings bucked the absence of injured stars Jayjay Helterbrand and Mark Caguioa, turning back the Energy Boosters to gain solo second place with a 3-1 win-loss card.
Abarrientos, reactivated from long hibernation to take Helterbrand's spot, had his contribution in the first half, coming through with six assists, three rebounds and one steal in 10 minutes of action.
The 1996 MVP winner, already a part of the Ginebra coaching staff who works as skills coach, had just returned late in the third period when he figured in a freak accident, sustaining a deep cut on his left index finger.
Nonetheless, the Kings sustained a steady game, dealing the Energy Boosters a third loss against two wins.
It was only the second game of Abarrientos in two seasons. Last campaign, he played just one game, also subbing for an injured Helterbrand.
"We're back to being an unhealthy team. Good thing, the guys have this attitude na laban lang ng laban," said Ginebra coach Jong Uichico.
"The guys tried to find ways to be competitive and Johnny was of big help although he failed to finish the game," Uichico added.
Abarrientos. was rushed to a nearby hospital, doubtful whether he can still play Sunday against Rain or Shine.
"Pakiramdam ko putol ang daliri ko. Parang sumabit sa baller ni Paolo (Hubalde). Dapat talaga ipagbawal ang kung ano-anong sinusuot ng mga players outside of the playing uniform," said Abarrientos.
"Johnny's status now depends on how fast he can recover and how soon can Jayjay return (from his own injury)," said Uichico.
Helterbrand, the 2008-09 season MVP awardee, joined Caguioa on the sideline with a strained knee.
The Kings, however, stayed competitive with Baguio checking a personal slump, and Tubid and Villanueva dishing out another solid showing.
Baguio converted 2-of-3 three-point attempts and finished with a game-high 22 points that went with two blocks and one rebound in 28 minutes of action.
Tubid got 17 points and five rebounds while Villanueva added 14 points, eight rebounds and three assists. (SB)
The scores:
Ginebra 94 -- Baguio 22, Tubid 17, Villanueva 14, Menk 12, Cruz 10, Salvacion 7, Wilson 6, Intal 2, Alvarez 2, Mamaril 2, White 0, Abarrientos 0.
Barako Bull 86 -- Najorda 15, Duncil 12, Dimaunahan 12, Crisano 12, Aljamal 10, Lao 10, Menor 4, Hubalde 4, Alonzo 3, Membrere 2, Belano 2, Fernandez 0.
Quarterscores: 17-13, 39-34, 74-63, 94-86
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