PBA: Ginebra’s Grigsby relishes first ‘Manila Clasico’ despite loss

Barangay Ginebra import Riley Grigsby during a game against Magnolia in the PBA Governors’ Cup.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines—Barangay Ginebra import Riley Grigsby got his first taste of the “Manila Clasico” rivalry on Sunday in the PBA Governors’ Cup at Araneta Coliseum.

As expected, Grigsby felt the atmosphere of one of the biggest sports rivalries in the country.

“I’ve heard about what this game means to fans. You feel the energy. I definitely felt the energy from the fans. I see why it’s called a classic,” Grigsby, who’s had stints in Luxembourg and the G League,  told the Inquirer.

READ: Familiarity key in Magnolia win over Ginebra

“It’s up there. Number one experience, probably. You can tell these fans love basketball or Ginebra. Whichever team they support, they bring the energy and you can tell. It’s been a while since I played these kinds of games with these types of energy so it was fun.”

Unfortunately for the Gin Kings, the energy from the predominantly Ginebra crowd was still not enough to propel them to victory with Magnolia taking a convincing 88-73 win in Group B action.

Grigsby struggled with 15 points on 5-of-19 shooting from the field, five rebounds and five assists. He said the pressure didn’t get to him as he credited the Hotshots’ defense for limiting his production.

“They had a good game plan, packing the paint on me and collapsing. I just have to do a better job in being more physical and getting to my spots.”

Grigsby and Ginebra look to bounce back on Sunday against Blackwater at Ninoy Aquino Stadium.