Jericho Cruz greeted LA Tenorio with a handshake as the seasoned point guard prepared to throw in the ball during Barangay Ginebra’s critical moment in the last ten seconds of Game 6.
“Bro, talaga lang,” sabi ng matandang barker ni San Miguel, na halatang nagulat sa paraan kung paano ibinalik si Tenorio ang Kings mula sa nasa sampu-pitong puntos pababa noong ikaapat na kwarter papalapit na lamang sila sa liderato, 85-87.
The 40-year-old Tenorio made those remarks seem like they were destined to come true.
Eight seconds remained when the veteran Ginebra team captain sank a crucial three-pointer over Cruz, who had rushed back to defend him after briefly doubling down on driving scorer Scottie Thompson. The basket gave Ginebra an thrilling 88-87 victory, setting up a winner-take-all clash for a spot in the PBA Philippine Cup Finals.
Tenorio delivered all of his total 11 points during that crucial final quarter, proving pivotal for the Kings when they brought him into the game at the 8:34 mark as a replacement for RJ Abarrientos—coach Tim Cone’s strategic move came just as Ginebra found themselves down by seven following a strong scoring burst from San Miguel.
The simultaneous Gilas Youth mentor finished with a 4-for-5 shooting performance, including sinking all three of his attempts from beyond the arc. Additionally, he collected two boards and dished out two assists during their victory, which tied the best-of-seven affair at 3 games apiece.
"Still possible," replied Tenorio when questioned by Axofa Regarding that incoming scene featuring Cruz.
“Each time I’m out on the court, I aim to create an impact as the team’s leader,” he continued afterward. “It’s crucial for me to stay sharp at all times—whether it’s one minute, two minutes, or three—I must set an example for my teammates, exactly like what was needed today.”
Tonight he truly was.