PBA: Rafi Reavis’ grit helps Magnolia clinch twice-to-beat edge

Magnolia Hotshots’ Rafi Reavies during a PBA Philippine Cup game against TNT Tropang Giga. –PBA IMAGES

MANILA, Philippines—Magnolia’s Rafi Reavis proved something important on Friday night.

Being productive on offense is always fundamental in winning basketball games, but in the Hotshots’ final PBA Philippine Cup elimination game, Reavis showed it’s not always about the points.

READ: PBA: Magnolia books twice-to-beat, outlasts TNT ahead of playoffs

Magnolia, thanks to Reavis’ pure grit and determination, staved off TNT, 88-83, to clinch a twice-to-beat advantage in the quarterfinals.

“I’ve been here many times. I know what it takes to get to the next round. I’m just trying to go all out and do what I can, whether I’m on the court or off the court. My role doesn’t stop,” said a proud Reavis at Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

“Being in these battles for so many years, I’ve seen everything you can imagine. When I’m off the court, it’s my job to see things that other guys may not see because I have a different angle.”

Zav Lucero had an all-around game with 24 points, eight rebounds, and five assists, while William Navarro chipped in 13 points. But it was the veteran big man who did the intangibles for the Hotshots.

Reavis only had four points but contributed six rebounds, a steal, and a block in just 12 minutes of action.

His effort helped Magnolia finish the eliminations with an 8-3 record and a twice-to-beat incentive heading into the PBA playoffs.

However, Reavis knows that record resets to 0-0 in the playoffs, and he’s ready to contribute even more.

“I’m not tired. If you guys notice, I really don’t play so much, but I practice very hard. I’m glad we’re in this position,” he said.

“We accomplished our goal to get the twice-to-beat advantage. We’ll be ready come game time.”