Abarrientos makes ‘Clasico’ extra special

MANILA, Philippines —  It was his first “Manila Clasico” experience – on Christmas Day, with 12,198 in attendance at the Big Dome and against the team of his legendary uncle, Magnolia assistant coach Johnny Abarrientos, at that.

And so Barangay Ginebra’s RJ Abarrientos made sure to really make it count.

The rookie guard fired 17 of his 20 points in the second half, dropping four booming triples that sparked the Gin Kings’ turnaround from 22 markers down en route to a pulsating 95-92 win.

“It’s Christmas and lahat gustong umuwi ng panalo, even si Tito (Johnny A). But sabi ko, kailangan naming ipakita ‘yung NSD (Ginebra’s never-say-die mantra) sa crowd,” said the young Abarrientos, who capped his brilliant night with the assist that led to Scottie Thompson’s game-winning trey at the buzzer.

“Christmas Clasico, special ito for the Ginebra team, especially for me. This is my first time playing sa ‘Clasico’ and then with my uncle (on the other side) so (it’s) very special for me,” he added.

The third overall pick in the Season 49 rookie draft said his uncle, one of the greatest players in the PBA with 12 championships, including a grand slam in 1996, one MVP and two Finals MVP plums, have been his major influence.

Prior to Wednesday’s rivalry game, the Ginebra ace said he and coach Johnny had a good talk about family, life and yes, basketball.