Games today
3:00 p.m.- Rain or Shine vs. Blackwater
5:15 p.m.- Meralco vs. Star
A well-rested Alaska marked its first game after more than two weeks of rest with a resounding victory as the Aces blasted the GlobalPort Batan Pier, 123-104, last night in the 41st PBA Philippine Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.
Taking the floor for the first time since losing to Barangay Ginebra, 92-93, last Nov. 7 in Dubai, UAE, displayed tremendous teamwork to easily dispose GlobalPort and bag its fourth win five games for a tie with the San Miguel Beermen at the top.
Alaska had eight players scoring in twin digits with Cyrus Baguio leading the way with 17 points.
“I love a team that shares the basketball. We score a lot as a team, but the other thing is our minutes today, we have a lot of guys in that 12-26 minute range,” said coach Alex Compton.
“We emphasize moving the ball, sharing the basketball. When you have a team that has everybody’s a threat, you should share the basketball. I hope they enjoy it more,” added Compton.
Vic Manuel finished with 16 points, eight rebounds, and three steals. RJ Jazul, Chris Banchero, and Sonny Thoss added 14 points apiece for Alaska, which led by double digits for most part of the game.
Alaska was quick to tear the game apart, taking a 30-14 lead in the fourth quarter.
GlobalPort seemed to have found an answer to Alaska’s attack when moved within 61-67 in the third quarter.
The Aces, however, went on a rampage anew with Baguio and Manuel conspiring in a telling run that their team cruising to an insurmountable 118-96 lead.
Terrence Romeo piled up 33 points, five assists, and three rebounds but the Batang Pier cold only get 16 points from Stanley Pringle.
Stopping one of the dreaded GlobalPort backcourt duo was the key, said Compton.
“When you cut off one of the heads of a Hydra, you have a better chance of winning. Getting Stanley in foul trouble was intentional and it worked today,” said Compton.
GlobalPort succumbed to its second loss in five outings.