Ginebra guard Stephen Holt tries to score against Magnolia in the PBA Philippine Cup.–PBA IMAGES

MANILA, Philippines—Stephen Holt stepped up for Ginebra when the spotlight hit the brightest in the latest chapter of “Manila Clasico,” in the PBA Philippine Cup.

After a forgettable game on Friday against Meralco, Holt recovered in the best way possible to push the Gin Kings to an 85-81 nail-biter over Magnolia at Araneta Coliseum on Sunday night.

READ: PBA: Ginebra rallies to beat Magnolia in key clash

What better way to bounce back than in Manila Clasico?

Stephen Holt helps Ginebra recover after their loss at the hands of Meralco and he did it at the expense of league rival, Magnolia. @INQUIRERSports pic.twitter.com/oyuHf6iHzX

— Rommel Fuertes Jr. (@MeloFuertesINQ) June 1, 2025

“We showed our true character today, bouncing back from adversity and I’m so proud of our guys,” said Holt.

“Individually, I just wanted to affect different facets of the game like driving to the basket and shooting without hesitation. I thought, tonight, I still had some open looks I could’ve knocked down.”

Holt had a stinker of a game in Ginebra’s 82-73 loss at the hands of Meralco finishing with three points and four rebounds. To make matters worse, Holt misfired on all of his nine attempts from the field.

In the PBA’s premier rivalry, though, Holt redeemed himself with 14 points and seven rebounds.

READ: PBA: Tim Cone ejected in Ginebra loss, boost out of Big Dome

The reigning Rookie of the Year also helped Ginebra improve to a 6-3 card while shaking down the previous solo leader Magnolia at 7-3.

The two-way guard gave credit to his fellow Gin Kings in the win that gave them a huge momentum boost as the playoff race heats up.

“I just give credit to my teammates who give me confidence to continue being aggressive to take my shots and be great on the defensive end.”

Seeking a twice-to-beat edge in the playoffs, Gin Kings clash with rival TNT on Sunday at Ninoy Aquino Stadium.