PJ Simon pulled off a vintage performance, scoring 20 points to lead the Star Hotshots to a 103-86 win over the Blackwater Elite in their Oppo PBA Governors’ Cup campaign opener on Sunday at SMART-Araneta Coliseum.
The 37-year-old Simon scored 14 points in the second half, including four straight to end the third quarter, to help Star turn a 71-68 lead into a commanding 99-79 advantage in the final frame.
“Maaasahan naman lagi si PJ every time,” Star coach Chito Victolero said.
Simon also got ample help from Allein Maliksi and Cinmeon Bowers who chipped in 15 markers apiece.
Import Trevis Simpson led Blackwater, now 0-2 in the tournament, with 24 points and eight boards but he had to exit the game early due to a suspected groin pull.
