Barangay Ginebra San Miguel’s latest reinforcement Riley Grisby may have endured a difficult debut in the storied Manila Clasico, but the American import walked away from the experience with a deep appreciation for one of Philippine basketball’s fiercest rivalries.
Ginebra suffered a disappointing 88-73 defeat to longtime rivals Magnolia Hotshots in the PBA Governors’ Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Sunday, August 2. The loss spoiled Grisby’s first taste of the iconic matchup, but the 26-year-old admitted that the electric atmosphere inside the Big Dome made the contest one he will not soon forget.
Widely regarded as the premier rivalry in the Philippine Basketball Association, the Manila Clasico once again lived up to its reputation as thousands of passionate fans packed the venue, creating a playoff-like environment despite it being an elimination-round game.
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Grisby, who is serving as Barangay Ginebra’s temporary import while resident star Justin Brownlee continues to recover from injury, said the energy generated by both fan bases was unlike anything he has experienced in recent years.
“I have heard about what this game means to fans. You feel the energy. I definitely feel the energy from the fans,” Grisby said after the game.
“I see why it’s called a classic. 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.”
WATCH: Ginebra import Riley Grigsby talks about his first Manila Clasico. #PBA50 | @MeloFuertesINQ pic.twitter.com/OhHrLMV4mZ
— INQUIRER Sports (@inquirersports) August 2, 2026
While the atmosphere left a lasting impression, Grisby acknowledged that his individual performance fell well below his own expectations. Magnolia’s disciplined defensive scheme limited the athletic forward throughout the contest as he finished with just 15 points on an inefficient 5-of-19 shooting from the field. He also contributed five rebounds and five assists but struggled to consistently create quality scoring opportunities.
Rather than attributing his performance to the pressure of playing in such a high-profile game, Grisby credited Magnolia’s defensive execution, noting that the Hotshots made a concerted effort to crowd the paint and force him into difficult attempts.
“They had a good game plan, packing the paint on me and collapsing,” he explained. “I just have to do a better job of being more physical and getting to my spots.”
Magnolia’s defensive intensity disrupted Ginebra’s offensive rhythm for most of the evening, forcing the Gin Kings into contested shots while limiting easy opportunities around the basket. The Hotshots capitalized on those defensive stops to control the tempo and gradually pull away, handing Ginebra one of its toughest defeats of the conference.
Despite the setback, Grisby’s résumé suggests he has the tools to make a stronger impact moving forward. Before arriving in the PBA, the versatile forward gained valuable professional experience in the NBA G League, where he competed against several elite prospects and fringe NBA players. He also showcased his abilities in the Luxembourg Basketball League, experiences that helped develop his all-around game on both ends of the floor.
Now tasked with filling the sizable void left by Brownlee, Grisby understands the expectations that come with wearing a Ginebra jersey. Brownlee has long been one of the PBA’s most accomplished imports, and stepping into his role brings significant pressure. Even so, Grisby remains focused on quickly adapting to the league’s physical style of play and building chemistry with his new teammates.
The Gin Kings will be eager to bounce back when they return to action against the Blackwater Bossing at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium on Sunday, August 9. For Grisby, the matchup presents an opportunity not only to deliver a stronger individual performance but also to help Ginebra regain momentum as it continues its Governors’ Cup campaign.
Although his first Manila Clasico ended in disappointment on the scoreboard, Grisby left convinced that the rivalry deserves its reputation, describing the intensity, passion, and atmosphere as among the finest experiences of his professional career.
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