MARINERONG Pilipino escaped a tough stand from ADG Dong-Mapua on the way to an 83-69 victory on Monday in the 2020 PBA D-League Aspirants' Cup at the Paco Arena in Manila.
Jamie Malonzo was impressive in his debut for the Skippers, finishing with 23 points, 11 rebounds, six steals, four assists, and a block.
His performance more than made up for his s absence in the season opener while completing his citizenship documents to be eligible to play in the tournament.
Malonzo's trey with 3:38 remaining gave Marinerong Pilipino a 75-63 lead that practically took the fight out of ADG Dong-Mapua.
"Malaking tulong si Jamie sa amin and hopefully, maging consistent siya every game," said coach Yong Garcia.
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Juan Gomez de Liano also had a big game, scoring five of the Skippers' last six points and wound up with 18 points on a 4-of-10 shooting from long distance. He also had 11 rebounds and four assists
Alfred Batino scored 14 points and seven boards, and Dhon Reverente contributed nine points and five rebounds for the Skippers.
Marinerong Pilipino opened up a 17-point cushion, 55-38, behind a 15-0 run in the third quarter.
"Ang importante para sa amin, natapatan namin ang energy at effort ng Mapua," said Garcia.
Laurenz Victoria turned in 16 points, five rebounds, and two assists to show the way for the debuting Cardinals.
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The Scores:
MARINERONG PILIPINO 83 -- Malonzo 23, Ju. Gomez de Liano 18, Batino 14, Reverente 9, Lalata 6, Laput 6, Manday 3, Rios 2, Fuentes 2, Mangahas 0, Solis 0, Senining 0.
ADG DONG-MAPUA 69 -- Victoria 16, Lacap 14, Gamboa 11, Agustin 7, Lugo 7, Bonifacio 4, Nocum 4, Bunag 2, Pido 2, Nieles 2, Mercado 0, Salenga 0, Sumugat 0.
Quarters: 20-16, 40-38, 62-51, 83-69.
