Sonny Thoss of Alaska escapes the defense NLEX center Asi Taulava in yesterday’s PBA game at the MOA Arena. (PBA IMAGES)
Aces formalize entry to next round with lopsided victory over NLEX Road Warriors
Ledontae Henton scored 27 points and two locals completed double-doubles as Alaska led practically from the start in thumping NLEX, 100-85, to formally make the quarterfinals of the PBA Governors’ Cup at Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.
Calvin Abueva had 11 rebounds and 10 points, and starting center Sonny Thoss finished with 10 and 10 as Alaska closed out with a 6-5 (win-loss) record with its third straight win, winding up as No. 6 to play the third-ranked team in the first round of the playoffs.
The Aces actually tied Meralco and Mahindra for fourth spot but slid down to sixth because of an inferior quotient.
It will then be the Bolts against the Enforcers for No. 4 and the last twice-to-beat privilege, their game slated on Wednesday. League leader TNT KaTropa, hot Barangay Ginebra and defending champion San Miguel Beer have already booked win-once privileges in the quarterfinals.
“I appreciate the heart of the guys, I appreciate them continuing to defend,” Alaska coach Alex Compton said, obviously referring to the fact that they knew before the start of the game that they still wouldn’t make it to the playoff for No. 4 even with a win.
Only top ranking will be determined after the final game of the eliminations tomorrow in Biñan, Laguna, with the Texters and the Gin Kings slugging it out for the honor and the right to play No. 8 in the quarterfinals.
Rain or Shine was shooting for a playoff for No. 8 in its clash with also-ran powerhouse Star last night. The game was ongoing at press time. /Inquirer
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