Cone in awe but not surprised by Scottie Thompson exploits in Game 3

Barangay Ginebra guard Scottie Thompson looks on during a defensive possession against Rain or Shine in Game 3 of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup semifinals.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines–Coach Tim Cone hailed the performance of Scottie Thompson in Barangay Ginebra’s 103-98 victory that put the crowd favorites up 2-1 in their PBA Commissioner’s Cup semifinal series against Rain or Shine.

Thompson’s hot shooting in the second half on his way to 25 points allowed the Gin Kings to take control of Game 3 and eventually see off a tough Elasto Painters side before 13,000 fans at Mall of Asia Arena.

READ: PBA: Ginebra beats Rain or Shine again for 2-1 semis lead

“There’s nobody better than a guy who comes out and does his job literally every game,” Cone said after Thompson expressed being “blessed in those situations.”

“I tell you, he does it every practice, too. He comes out and he does his job. He does all the stuff that no one else wants to do. It’s just amazing to watch that day in and day out,” he added.

Ginebra moved two wins shy of advancing to the Finals, a familiar destination for Cone and Thompson for a decade.

His scoring output came after going 9-of-13 from the field, with five three-pointers, while also adding seven rebounds, two assists and three steals for the Gin Kings.

READ: PBA: Ginebra admits to not having any control yet despite tied semis

“I’ve had that opportunity, what, seven years now? Eight years? Ten years? Damn, that old?” Cone said while looking at Thompson.

“Ten years, I’ve been able to watch him do that day in and day out. It’s an amazing thing. He just comes to work every day, every game.”

Through three games of the semis, Thompson has logged 19.0 points on 51-percent shooting, including 7-of-19 from three on top of 6.7 rebounds, 3.3 assists and 1.0 steals.