ECOOIL-LA SALLE outplayed Centro Escolar University in the second half to pull away for an 89-61 romp on Tuesday in the 2024 PBA D-League Aspirant's Cup at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.
The two-time defending champions seized control in the third quarter behind an excellent defense that took away the fight from their debuting opponents.
Jonnel Policarpio tallied 18 points, six rebounds, three assists and two blocks for the Green Archers, who stayed perfect in three games and assumed the solo lead.
The versatile forward drew solid coverage from Henry Agunanne (13 points, nine rebounds, two blocks) and Mike Phillips (nine points ,12 rebounds).
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It was a frustrating loss for the Scorpions, who had a 20-12 lead in the first quarter but couldn't hold on to it.
The defending champs outscored the Scorpions, 22-15, in the second quarter to tie the score at 36 at halftime before completely dominating the match in the third.
Jayson Puray and Justin Guevarra had 12 and 10 points, respectively, for the Scorpions, the reigning Universities and Colleges Athletic League champion. (JBU)
The Scores:
EcoOil-La Salle 89 - Policarpio 18, Agunanne 13, Phillips 9, Abadam 8, Cortez 7, Macalalag 7, Gollena 7, Austria 7, Marasigan 5, Rubico 4, Buensalida 2, Daja 2, David 0, Alian 0.
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CEU 61 - Puray 12, Guevarra 10, Marcelo 9, Malicana 7, Santos 7, Gamboa 5, Bernabe 4, Olusesi 3, Serrano 2, Mendoza 2, De Guzman 0, Benitez 0.
Quarterscores: 14-21, 36-36, 61-49, 89-61.
