PBA: Ian Sangalang highlights his defense over offense

Magnolia Hotshots’ Ian Sangalang blocks Meralco Bolts’ Chris Banchero during a game in the 2026 PBA Governors’ Cup. –PBA IMAGES

MANILA, Philippines—Ian Sangalang has been a consistent and efficient offensive weapon for Magnolia in the PBA Governors’ Cup.

Not only has Sangalang scored 10 or more in the Hotshots’ six games this conference, but he’s also shooting a blistering 80.9 percent from the field.

But when asked about his offense, Sangalang said that the key to his steady scoring production is his play on the other end of the floor.

READ: PBA: Magnolia pulls away to beat Meralco in rain-delayed game

“I don’t think my plays lately are special. I really just started on defense. That’s where I get my momentum,” said Sangalang after helping the Hotshots rout the Meralco Bolts, 105-88, on Friday at Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

“Every time that coach puts me in, I give it all on defense so I can stay in the game longer.”

Sangalang gave the Bolts fits with 16 points on 7-of-9 shooting from the field and 10 rebounds plus a steal.

The seasoned center, who is averaging 14.2 points per game, also had 16 points on 7-of-11 shooting and seven rebounds in an 88-73 win over Barangay Ginebra last Sunday.

“The offense will come naturally. I don’t think about that anymore. For me, I just start on defense,” said the 34-year-old Sangalang, who’s known for being the team’s defensive backbone since his college days with the San Sebastian Stags in the NCAA.

After opening the conference with losses to Phoenix and Blackwater, the Hotshots have now won three of their last four games to move into a third-place tie with the Bossing in Group B.