Quezon City, Philippines (Eagle News) – The Alaska Aces managed to sneak in a victory against the Meralco Bolts, 97-94, after being down as much as 10 points in the third quarter to win the first game of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup Semi-Finals.
The comeback was led by Calvin Abueva who scored 13 of his 15 points all in the third quarter and it was followed up by RJ Jazul’s heroics in the fourth quarter to pull in his team in striking distance during the last two minutes of play.
Jazul lead the Aces in scoring with a total of 18 points and aside from Abueva, Cyrus Baguio added 13 points while Chris Eximiniano had 10. The Aces won despite missing the services of Jayvee Casio and Vic Manuel.
“We are one step closer,” said Alaska head Coach Alex Chompton on the importance of winning game 1 of their series.
“But they are going to come back and play harder as well,” added Chompton on what he expects from a team run by Norman Black.”
“I know Coach Norman has a brilliant mind and there are a lot of things that he can do and we can’t be prepared for all of them in one day. So, I expect Game 2 to be difficult again.”
Alaska import, Rob Dozier struggled with foul trouble all throughout the game was held to only 31 minutes of playing time but contributed 7 points, and 8 rebounds for his team.
The Bolts were anchored by Reynel Hugnatan who had 21 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists while import Arinze Onuaku had 11 points and grabbed 18 boards for his team but failed to score in the fourth quarter when he was needed the most.
The Aces now lead the series 1-0 and will play the Meralco Bolts again on Wednesday, April 27 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The scores:
ALASKA 97 – Jazul 18, Abueva 15, Baguio 13, Banchero 10, Exciminiano 9, Dozier 7, Menk 7, Baclao 6, Hontiveros 6, Thoss 4, Dela Cruz 2, Dela Rosa 0.
MERALCO 94 – Hugnatan 21, Hodge 14, Dillinger 12, Caram 11, Onuaku 11, Faundo 8, Newsome 7, Bono 6, Alapag 2, Amer 2, Buenafe Ry 0, Buenafe Ro 0.
Quarters: 26-23, 43-48, 71-79, 97-94
