Alaska import Robert Dozier outclassed his Meralco counterpart Eric
Dawson as the Aces carved out an 85-81 victory Wednesday night at the
SMART-Araneta Coliseum.Dozier posted 27 points, 14 rebounds, and six blocks for the Aces, which grabbed a share of the early Commissioner’s Cup lead with a perfect 2-0 record, tying idle Barako Bull.
Dawson, who scored 37 points in his debut against Talk ‘N Text last Saturday, was held to just 15 points on woeful 5-of-16 shooting (31 percent) by the stifling Alaska defense.
That left the Meralco locals led by Vic Manuel, who topped the Bolts with 18 points, to carry the fight for his team. Meralco stayed within striking distance in the second half, coming within four points on a three-pointer by Ronjay Buenafe with less than two minutes remaining.
The Bolts lucked out after Alaska deadshot JVee Casio missed two free throws in the ensuing play, but neither Buenafe nor Mac Cardona could bring Meralco closer in the next possession.
Cyrus Baguio gave Alaska more breathing room by splitting his free throws with 20 seconds left, before Buenafe hit another three-pointer to move the Bolts closer, 83-81, with 12.8 seconds left.
But Tony Dela Cruz hit two free throws to put more distance between the Aces and the Bolts, and Alaska foiled Manuel’s final attempt to seal the win.
Calvin Abueva added 20 points and eight rebounds for Alaska, while Cyrus Baguio chipped in 16.
The scores:
ALASKA 85 – Dozier 27, Abueva 20, Baguio 16, Casio 8, Espinas 6, Thoss 6, Dela Cruz 2, Ramos 0, Jazul 0, Eman 0, Hontiveros 0, Belasco 0.
MERALCO 81 – Manuel 18, Dawson 15, Buenafe 14, Cardona 11, Ross 6, Hugnatan 5, Hodge 4, Artadi 4, Guevarra 2, Borboran 2, Timberlake 0, Reyes 0.
Quarters: 26-21, 47-39, 63-62, 85-81
Source: interaksyon.com
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