From the Attack Failure to the Savior: Holt Leads Ginebra to the Semifinals

Sunday night story, December 29 at Araneta Coliseum is not about perfect play, but about unwavering determination. Barangay Ginebra reached the PBA Philippine Cup semifinals in the most dramatic way—winning 99-98 in overtime against Converge, where Stephen Holt became the unlikely hero with a game-winning three-pointer in the final seconds.

Struggle in the Darkest Moment

This game reflects Ginebra’s journey throughout a season full of ups and downs. When Converge took the lead with a 95-89 advantage with only 1:40 remaining, victory seemed out of reach. But the Gin Kings did not give up. In the fourth quarter, they trailed 83-86 with very little time left before Jeremiah Gray committed a foul on a three-point shot, forcing the game into overtime after Gray sank all three free throws.

The Clean-Handed Lead Player

Ironically, Holt was not the first choice for the game-winning shot. Throughout the game, the player only made 2 of 9 field goal attempts, including 1 of 7 from three-point range. Ginebra’s initial plan involved RJ Abarrientos—who exploded with 35 points in Game 1 of their 105-85 victory—to handle the crisis moment.

But when Abarrientos was double-teamed by two Converge players, Holt stepped up to take responsibility. With time running out, he bypassed MJ Garcia and released a perfect three-pointer just before the final buzzer. His stats were simple: 9 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists, but his impact was enormous.

Leadership in Imperfection

“I just want to win and do whatever it takes to achieve that,” Holt said after the game. “Obviously, I struggled in my shots, but my teammates gave me a lot of confidence. When that opportunity came at the end, I knew I had to step up for the team and execute.”

Those words resonated with the Gin Kings’ never-give-up spirit despite facing multiple obstacles. Veteran players Scottie Thompson and Japeth Aguilar had to leave due to fouls in regulation, but the team kept fighting to find a way to win.

Coach Tim Cone saw a special quality in Holt. “Stephen reminds me of Jojo Lastimosa from Alaska— a player nicknamed ‘Mr. Clutch.’ On nights when he struggles, he always performs exceptionally in any capacity. We keep trusting Stephen because we know he will rise when needed,” Cone said.

“And he did. This isn’t the first time this season he’s shown that ability.”

Next Stage: The Defensive King Awaits

Reaching the quarterfinals for the 8th consecutive time proves Ginebra’s consistency, despite a season full of ups and downs. Now they are set to face defending champion San Miguel in a best-of-seven semifinal, with Holt and the team aiming to bring home the trophy.

That night, Ginebra didn’t play perfectly and didn’t have everything, but they kept fighting and finding ways. That is the mark of a true team.