Murphy reflects on Manila Clasico debut as Ginebra falls to Magnolia

MANILA, Philippines — Import Jordan Murphy’s first-ever "Manila Clasico" experience didn’t go as planned on Sunday night. Just two games into his PBA stint, the American reinforcement struggled against Magnolia’s physical defense as Barangay Ginebra suffered a 112-93 beating in their second face-off in the PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup at the Araneta Coliseum. “Yeah, they’re physical, [and] they scout well and they are well-coached,” Murphy said in a post-game chat with sportswriters. The Puerto Rican forward got off to a hot start, scoring 11 points early on, though the Hotshots still managed to erect an early 34-19 lead. Magnolia subsequently tightened its defense, holding the former Minnesota Gopher to just seven points the rest of the way as the LA Tenorio-coached squad secured its sixth win in nine starts to lock up a playoff spot. The victory also marked the Hotshots' second straight win against the Gin Kings this conference. “They followed their game plan to the T, and you can tell,” Murphy noted. “If you take one thing away from them, they have four other options.” Despite the disappointing loss, the 29-year-old Ginebra import considered it an honor to take part in the league's most storied basketball rivalry. “I feel great. It’s an...