AFTER A slow start, the defending champions Dorma rallied to snatch the second seed and the last twice-to-beat semifinals advantage after routing CMI, 79-55, at the close of the elimination round in the Architects + Engineers Basketball Association Corporate Cup last Saturday at the University of San Carlos gym.
Reigning league MVP Ed Macasling again proved unstoppable as he piled up 36 points, four rebounds, five assists, two steals and a block.
After a close first period which saw Dorma lead, 18-13, the titleholder took control of the lead and the game with a 16-5 blast in the second that put them in front, 34-18.
They did not look back after that surge to end the elims with a 7-3 win-loss card, good for second behind Megabond which won via default over Fenestram.
Niel Benedicto also scored 14 points and grabbed eight boards while Richard Gayomali also had a solid all-around outing with 12 points, five rebounds, four dimes and two steals.
In the other game, Phoenix finished its campaign with a flourish by winning over Davies, 89-60, for their first and only victory of this tournament.
The semifinals this weekend will pit Megabond vs. Fenestram and Dorma vs. CMI. Megabond.