Sports
NLEX holds on to win despite Alaska’s huge run
The Road Warriors nearly bubbled a 30-point lead, but a lucky break down the stretch helped them escape the Aces’ final hurrah. (PNA Photo)
NLEX was up, 87-57, with 9:46 remaining in the game when Alaska pulled a 32-4 run that cut the lead down to just two, 91-89, with 15 seconds left.
The Aces even had a chance to tie the game when Kevin Alas only made a split from the line with 11.9 seconds left, but Kevin Racal’s inbound pass off a timeout intended for Carl Cruz was too strong for the latter to receive, ending up in a huge turnover as free throws from Alas and Kiefer Ravena sealed the win for the Road Warriors.
In effect, San Miguel is once again solely on top of the standings at 6-2, a half-game ahead of both Alaska and Magnolia.
Box Scores:
NLEX 96-Alas 15, Soyud 15, Fonacier 15, Quiñahan 12, Ravena 12, Tiongson 8, Miranda 8, Mallari 4, Baguio 3, Al-Hussaini 2, Gotladera 2, Taulava 0
Alaska 89-Teng 12, Casio 12, Manuel 12, Cruz 10, Abueva 10, Enciso 10, Exciminiano 7, Banchero 4, Thoss 4, Racal 4, Potts 3, J. Pascual 1, Baclao 0
Quarterscores: 29-18, 52-32, 79-54, 96-89
