Hotshots ward off inspired Sorento in Pacman’s return

MANILA, Philippines – Just the presence of Manny Pacquiao on the bench proved to be a big boost, inspiring the Kia Sorento to push the reigning four-peat champs Purefoods Star Hotshots hard for over three quarters.

Facing a scare, the Hotshots needed to dig deep in the closing minutes to ward off the Sorento, 88-77, and gain a piece of fourth place in the PBA Philippine Cup at the Ynares Sports Center in Antipolo Wednesday night.

“They were certainly inspired. They played an inspired game and they were outstanding through three quarters,” said Purefoods coach Tim Cone.

“It’s tough to match their intensity and inspiration. They had that through the game, and lots of credit to the Kia players, their coaching staff and Manny Pacquiao,” Cone also said. “Three days after the fight and he showed up here, what a man, he’s amazing.”

Pacquiao electrified the venue as he showed up as promised and joined their warm-up, making couples of treys.

Before the match, PBA commissioner Chito Salud and Antipolo Mayor Junjun Ynares presented Pacquiao a commemorative ball in honor of his latest feat atop the ring.

Pacquiao opted not to field himself, but inspired his team nonetheless.

They were still ahead at 63-58 in the last 10 minutes before the Hotshots made a key run anchored on a pressing defense.

Purefoods zoomed ahead, 76-65, on a sudden 20-2 attack and went on to pull even with Barangay Ginebra and Talk n Text at fourth place at 5-3.

Kia moved down to 1-8.