In his biggest game yet, Jamie Malonzo delivers in title clincher for Ginebra

Ginebra forward Jamie Malonzo dunks during Game 7 of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals against Bay Area at the Philippine Arena. PBA PICTURES

MANILA, Philippines-A diamond in the rough for Barangay Ginebra just four months ago, Jamie Malonzo played the game of his life on Sunday night in the winner-takes-all Game 7 against Bay Area.

And the boy did a two-way forward step up to the plate.

Malonzo, a former sophomore from NorthPort, scored 22 points and 17 rebounds to help the Gin Kings capture the 2022 PBA Commissioner’s Cup before a partisan crowd at the Philippine Arena in Bulacan.

“Of course, I left everything on the line tonight,” Malonzo told reporters as the crowd of darlings showered each other with booze in the team’s dugout. “Game 7 in my first Finals? I just wanted to, you know, get the job done.

“I tell my teammates, ‘Whatever it takes to win.'”

Malonzo is famous for his third quarter offense that keeps opponents on the ropes. He ended up being crowned the best of the contest, ending what has been a whirlwind second year in the pro league.

“When I didn’t trade, I remember it like it was yesterday. I put up shots in NorthPort and prepare to play for the game there. I asked for the phone, I remember (coach) Pido (Jarencio) shouting, he said take this phone. And man, it happened, I got here,” he said.

“The first thought was always to win the chip. I didn’t know it would happen soon. I knew it wouldn’t be easy. We’re playing against a good team, a good coach. Some would be afraid to take on such a challenge, but now it’s here and I’m happy.
It has been quite a second year for Malonzo, who has also blossomed into a national team standout.

“This is crazy. It’s really crazy, because I used to pray, sleepless nights praying for Gilas, praying that we can get a team like this—a special group of boys. And it’s all sort of in line. I’m just very grateful, honestly,” he said.

“Many sleepless nights praying for moments like this. I’m just super blessed this is happening. Surreal, really surreal.”

Blessings have been abundant for Malonzo. But he feels like he’s just starting his PBA career.

“I still feel like I’m still growing. So much to do, so much to do this season. (I want to take a) break for a couple of weeks [but] I just want to keep my foot on the gas. I just think I (will get) better every conference.

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