BONNIE TAN finally tasted his first win as a first-time head coach in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) after NorthPort beat Terrafirma, 115-100, on Wednesday in the Philippine Basketball Association Governors’ Cup at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.
The win was the Batant Pier’s first in seven games in the conference.
Former San Miguel Beer import Kevin Murphy and Robert Bolick stepped up big time early and the Batang Pier crushed every rally the Dyip attempted to end their losing spell.
“It’s relieving that we got our first win. Everyone stepped up in this game including our role and experienced players,” said Tan, who switched places with Pido Jarencio, who’s now the team manager. “I’m just happy we won. I hope there’ll be a next time.”
Murphy tallied 28 points and nine rebounds, while Bolick had 26 points, nine rebounds, six assists and three steals.
JM Calma had 18 points and nine rebounds while Terrafirma top overall pick Joshua Munzon added 17 points for the Batang Pier.
Jordan Williams led Terrafirma with 25 points, but couldn’t help the Dyip—who dropped to 2-6 win-loss record—rally.