Alaska became the fourth team to secure a quarterfinals berth after fending off NorthPort, 102-94, Friday in the PBA Philippine Cup at the Angeles University Foundation Sports and Cultural Center.
Abu Tratter and Rodney Brondial scored 16 points each while also combining for 16 rebounds even as four others scored in double figures as the Aces moved to sixth place with a 6-4 record while boosting their chances of gaining a twice-to-beat advantage.
Coach Jeffrey Cariaso’s team bounced back from an 87-81 loss to Barangay Ginebra San Miguel last Tuesday. The Aces are coming off a three-day break, which is rare given that the other teams are forced to play in back-to-back days.
“We are happy with our progression throughout the conference. It’s been a tough 10 games and it’s going to be an even tougher game next Monday to end the eliminations. It’s been a roller-coaster ride,” said Cariaso.
Jeron Teng had 14 points, eight rebounds and six assists, Robbie Herndon scored 13 while Maverick Ahanmisi and Vic Manuel added 11 points apiece for Alaska which led for most of the way despite attempts by NorthPort to make a rally.
Christian Standhardinger scored a career-high 39 points but his individual performance wasn’t enough as NorthPort absorbed its third straight defeat and dropped to a tie with Terrafirma at the bottom at 1-7.
NorthPort needs to win its final three games in order to stay in the race for the eighth and final spot in the quarterfinals.
Alaska led 23-9 at the start and was able to keep its form despite allowing NorthPort to take a 46-45 lead early in the third.
The Aces answered with a 14-2 run behind a balanced scoring attack, leaving the Batang Pier to play catch up the rest of the way.
The scores:
Second Game
ALASKA 102 — Tratter 16, Brondial 16, Teng 14, Herndon 13, Ahanmisi 11, Manuel 11, DiGregorio 6, Ebona 6, Casio 6, Galliguez 3, Ayaay 0, Publico 0, Andrada 0.
NORTHPORT 94 — Standhardinger 39, Nabong 11, Lanete 11, Taha 10, Elorde 9, Ferrer 8, Subido 3, Cruz 3, Revilla 0, Guinto 0, Manganti 0.
Quarters: 27-18, 45-40, 69-65, 102-94.