By Michael Angelo S. Murillo
Senior Reporter
THE Magnolia Hotshots Pambansang Manok drew first blood against the Alaska Aces in their best-of-seven Philippine Basketball Association Governors’ Cup finals series, winning Game One, 100-84, on Wednesday at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Got off to a fiery start, the Hotshots did not take their foot off the gas pedal en route to the commanding victory.
The Aces tried to rally back in the fourth quarter but could not complete any comeback as Magnolia reasserted command when Alaska came too near for comfort.
Import Romeo Travis led the way for the Hotshots with 29 points and 13 rebounds with Mark Barroca adding 16 points, 10 coming in the fourth period to douse cold water on the Alaska rally.
Paul Lee had 14 points while Jio Jalalon had all-around numbers of seven points, 12 rebounds and nine assists for Magnolia.
Alaska, meanwhile, was paced by import Mike Harris with 20 points and 15 boards with Chris Banchero finishing with 12 points.
Game Two of the Governors’ Cup finals is on Friday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

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