Che’Lu one step closer to 2019 PBA D-League playoffs after ending Enderun contention

“Final : 77 – 72 in favor of the Che’Lu Bar & Grill Revellers! Best Player : Ryan Batino with 14 points and 17 rebounds #PBADLeague2019” (Photo: PBA D-League/Facebook)

Che’Lu Bar and Grill is still in the running for the 2019 Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Developmental League (D-League) playoffs after claiming victory over Family Mart-Enderun, 77-72, last Monday, May 20 at the JCSGO Gym in Cubao.

It was Jeff Viernes, former league Most Valuable Player, who set the pace for the Revellers and caused their 6-3 win-loss in the Aspirants Group, totalling 13 points, five rebounds, and five assists throughout the entire game, including a crucial three at the last 43.5 seconds of the last quarter. Fellow Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) player Alfred Batino contributed a double-double at 14 points and 17 rebounds, while teammate Rey Suerte chipped 13 points and four rebounds.

For the Titans, a total of four turnovers in the last three minutes of the game damaged their eight-point lead at the beginning of the fourth and ended their season run with a 1-7 win-loss standing. Valendre Chuaca fought hard the entire match with 18 points and eight assists, while former Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) Blue Eagle Fonso Gotladera chipped a total of 17. Marvin Hayes added double digits as well with 13 points.

In response to being one step closer to entering the quarterfinals, Che’Lu head coach Stevenson Tiu said, “No matter what happens, we should end with a win. Our fate is no longer in our hands. We’re just hoping for the better.”

On the same day, SMDC-NU achieved their fourth victory in a row in a 100-74 win against Perpetual with Dave Ildefonso having a remarkable game with 20 points, six rebounds, and three assists. Teammates John Lloyd Clemente, Patrick Yu, and Issa Gaye did not disappoint as well with 16 points, 13 points, and 11 points respectively. They’ve improved their standing with four wins and five losses in the Foundation Group.