Ginebra Dominates Terrafirma, Welcomes Back LA Tenorio After Cancer Battle
Barangay Ginebra put on an impressive performance to secure a 110-99 victory over Terrafirma in the 2023 PBA Commissioner’s Cup on Sunday, Dec. 3 at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City. The emotional return of LA Tenorio, who was sidelined for almost nine months following his battle against colon cancer, seemed to be a significant factor in the team’s success.
Despite not being in his usual top form, Tenorio made a heartfelt comeback and was greeted with applause and cheers from fans, teammates, PBA officials, and even the opposing team. Ginebra seized control of the game in the second frame, going on a 20-3 run to turn a 34-31 deficit into a commanding 51-37 advantage.
The team never looked back from there, with Triple towers Christian Standhardinger, Japeth Aguilar and Tony Bishop leading the way. Bishop contributed 26 points and 11 rebounds, Standhardinger chipped in 24 points and 10 boards, and Aguilar added 19 points and seven rebounds. Jamie Malonzo and Maverick Ahanmisi also made significant contributions to the team’s victory.
Despite finishing with only six points, Tenorio’s presence drew the loudest cheers from the crowd. In contrast, Terrafirma’s Javi Gomez de Liaño had 22 points, and import Thomas De Thaey had 18, but it was not enough to spoil the Kings’ celebration as they slid to their third-straight loss.
Ginebra’s win improved their record to 4-1 in the standings, while Terrafirma fell to a 2-4 slate. As Ginebra continues their journey in the Commissioner’s Cup, Tenorio’s comeback and the team’s dominant performance is a testament to their strength and resilience.
