Ginebra left to monitor Scottie Thompson after head knock in Game 1

That, however, raised some questions, with many wondering whether or not the league has a concussion protocol in place.

Still, the 32-year-old braved through for the sake of his team, and even played a role in nearly pulling off a miraculous comeback in the clutch.

He knocked down a booming four-pointer under pressure to cut the gap to a field goal, much to the delight of the 10,000-plus fans that filled the venue.

But it proved to be their final stand. Jhonard Clarito sank both of his charities moments later before the Elasto Painters’ tough defensive effort made sure that the crowd darlings wouldn’t steal the series opener.

Thompson ended up with 17 points and seven rebounds in the defeat, which saw Ginebra blow the 84-74 lead it built early in the final period.

The series will shift to the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay for Games 2 and 3, and the seven-time champion shall be closely monitored given his condition.