Bataan Risers use home court advantage to conquer Navotas Clutch

“Bukod sa balanseng contribution ng team sa points, kahanga-hanga rin ang kanilang defense sa laban kagabi. #AangatKa #AangatTayo #RiseAbove #RiseUp Thanks, FOX SPORTS Asia!” (Photo: Bataan Risers Basketball/Facebook)

Former Far Eastern University (FEU) star Rich Escoto successfully filled in the shoes of forward Jeepy Faundo, who was recently drafted by the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) as he was hailed player of the game with 15 points, while teammate John Byron Villarias contributed 12 points and eight rebounds. However, the entire team, including Gary David, Alfred Batino, Pamboy Raymundo, and new addition former Pasay Voyager Yvan Ludovice, performed as well — the team converting their opponents’ 22 turnovers into a total of 28 points.

As for their opponents, Jai Reyes, new addition Samboy De Leon, and Michole Sorela all contributed double digits, but it was not enough to lead their team to victory.

According to Bataan coach Jojo Lastimosa, their home crowd was their biggest motivation to push through throughout the night, especially when Navotas was leading in the third quarter.

In his words to FoxSportsPH, “We just want to get that home court advantage and we still want to play here.” Coach Jolas was away last game due to personal matters in hometown Cagayan de Oro, but returned to his duties soon after, saying, “I have a lot of confidence in all the people who took care of the squad – Vic Pablo, Joel Banal, and the rest of the coaching staff did a great job preparing the team. It’s good to be back and to be back winning.”

The next time Bataan will see action is on January 28 as they face the Laguna Krah Heroes on their Alonte Sports Arena home court, while recent opponents Navotas Clutch will try to redeem themselves from their most recent loss as they face Batangas at the San Andres Sports Complex on January 22.