Apex Fuel-San Sebastian remained as the hottest team in the PBA D-League Aspirants Cup after picking up its fourth straight win with a 71-62 triumph over Centro Escolar University at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City on Tuesday, July 26.
The Stags unleashed an 11-0 finishing kick in the final minute to clinch a spot in the playoffs and get a share of the lead in the standings with identical 4-1 records.
At the forefront of that decisive run was James Una who showed the way for San Sebastian with 17 points, nine rebounds and four blocks, while Jacob Shanoda added a double-double of 13 points and 12 boards.
Ichie Altamirano also provided the steady presence at the backcourt with 11 points built on three triples.
Tied 60-all with 4:43 remaining in the clock, a pair of free throws from Rafael Are and an and-1 play from Una triggered the decisive run as the Stags also clamped down on the defensive end to force consecutive turnovers on the Scorpions in the waning minutes.
Lenard Santiago also sustained his stellar performance for CEU with 20 points and nine rebounds but were not enough as the Scorpions dropped to a 2-3 slate.