Kings recover in endgame to post crucial win over Barako Bull in PBA Governors’ Cup

Games today

Legazpi City, Albay

6:45 p.m.- Powerade vs. B-Meg

The Barangay Ginebra Kings lost a 15-point third quarter  lead but regained their bearings in the closing minutes to score a crucial, 102-91 win over the Barako Bull Enery last night in the 37th PBA Governors’ Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.

The Kings finished their elimination round assignment with five wins and four losses. By tallying five victories, the Kings are already assured of a playoff for a semifinal spot.

Ginebra could advance to the semis without having to go through a playoff game depending on how Meralco, Powerade and Petron perform in their last games.

The Bolts, the Tigers and the Boosters are tied for the fifth to seventh spots with similar 4-4 (win-loss) records.

Only six teams will advance to the semis.

Ginebra, Petron, Meralco and Powerade could all end up with five wins after the eliminations. In that case, ties will be broken through playoff games to determine who will advanced to the semis.

Mark Caguioa spearheaded Ginebra’s big win by scoring 22 points, including seven straight points in a pivotal stretch inside the final two minutes.

After leading by as many as 15 points in the third, Ginebra allowed Barako Bull to move up, 81-80, in the 6:58 mark of the fourth.

Cedric Bozeman converted a three-point play and Caguioa nailed a techical free throw off Barako Bull head coach Junel Baculi as the Kings never trailed again after recapturing the lead, 84-81, with 6:24 left.