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MANILA, Philippines – The Alaska Aces thwarted a resurgent Barangay Ginebra squad, 104-98, to make the cut for the eight teams that compete in the quarterfinals of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup.
After seeing their double-digit lead vanish midway the payoff period, the Aces stepped up in crunch time to repulse the Gin Kings and secure a place in the playoffs.
Ginebra mounted a scorching 15-3 run and took a slim 90-89 lead on Mac Baracael’s free throws with 5:04 to go.
But Cyrus Baguio and Calvin Abueva took charge and instigated a 14-8 comeback to douse the Gin Kings’ hopes of reclaiming the lead.
Baguio had 17 points, while Abueva chipped in 16. Damion James also did damage during the final minutes for 29 points and 14 boards.
Mike Dunigan paced the Gin Kings with 32 points. Baracael had 18 markers.
Alaska now has 5 wins against 6 losses to put GlobalPort out of the running for the Top 8 teams that will advance to the next round.
The loss dropped Ginebra to 5-6. Based on the quotient system, the Gin Kings will be forced to play against Rain or Shine in the quarterfinals.
The Aces, on the other hand, will square off against Purefoods.
Box scores:
Alaska 104 – James 29, Baguio 17, Abueva 16, Jazul 10, Hontiveros 9, Casio 5, Banchero 4, Thoss 4, Exciminiano 4, Manuel 2, Menk 2, Baclao 2, Eman 0, Dela Cruz 0.
Ginebra 98 – Dunigan 32, Baracael 18, Aguilar 17, Tenorio 10, Urbiztondo 8, Slaughter 7, Caguioa 4, Monfort 2, Pena 0, Helterbrand 0, Ababou 0, Ellis 0.
Quarterscores: 29-23, 52-39, 78-69, 104-98
Photo: Mark Cristino/ABS-CBN
This story was republished with permission from ABS-CBNNews.com
