STREAKING Marinerong Pilipino-San Beda pulled off another escape act, thanks to Jacob Cortez who delivered the go-ahaed basket with 20 seconds left for 66-64 decision over erstwhile unbeaten University of Perpetual Help System Delta System in the 2023 PBA Aspirants' Cup Thursday at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.
Cortez's game-winning lay-up capped a 34-point effort and allowed the Red Lions to assume the solo lead with its third straight win against a lone defeat.
The Altas slid to 2-1.
"Well, I have to give it to our players for grinding it out. Hindi sila sumuko even though we're down. Ito naman 'yung gusto namin kaya kami nag-DLeague, para masanay sa mga dikdikang laro," said coach Yuri Escueta.
"Hats off to Perpetual. We know how good and tough they are. Pinaghandaan talaga namin."
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Cortez, son of former PBA player Mike, knocked down five triples on top of three rebounds and two steals.
Perpetual, which scored its first two wins in blowout fashion, had a chance to tie the game when Cyrus Nitura went to the line with 12 seconds left.
Too bad, he missed both free thows and his 22 points went for naught as the Altas went down in defeat. (JBU)
The Scores:
Marinero-San Beda 66 - Cortez 34, Andrada 12, Alfaro 10, Gallego 4, Payosing 3, Puno 2, Cuntapay 1, Tagle 0, Llarena 0, Royo 0, Jopia 0.
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Perpetual 64 - Nitura 22, Razon 7, Barcoma 6, Omega 6, Abis 6, Pagaran 5, Boral 3, Ramirez 3, Roque 3, Cuevas 2, Nunez 1, Sevilla 0.
Quarterscores:14-15, 31-30, 45-50, 66-64.
