Brownlee, Balkman lead Alab to back to back wins

Alab Pilipinas is starting to move on from its  horrible start in the ASEAN Basketball League after tallying its second straight win at the expense of Westports Malaysia, 90-79, Wednesday at Filoil Flying V Centre.

The Filipinos mounted a 20-3 run across the third and fourth quarters to build an 81-66 lead with import Renaldo Balkman capping off the spurt with a breakaway two-hand flush.

Alab’s win was even more impressive as new imports Justin Brownlee and Balkman, who replaced Ivan Johnson and Regie Okosa, only arrived with the team the day of the game.

“I’m really thankful that Justin’s playing with Alab, and Renaldo was someone we wanted who can replace Ivan’s versatility,” said head coach Jimmy Alapag who had a lot of history with his new players when he was still playing for club and country.

“Also the local guys withstood the adversity, their focus and commitment to what we’re trying to do as a team. They deserve the win tonight.”

Brownlee put up a game-high 29 points with seven rebounds and eight assists to lead Alab to a 2-3 record after a 0-3 start while Balkman recorded a 17-point, 11-rebound double-double.

Josh Urbiztondo orchestrated Alab’s offense finishing with 13 points and nine assists while Robby Celiz also finished in double figures with 10 points.

Joshua Munzon led the 1-3 Dragons with 21 points and nine boards while Allen West finished with 16 points and 22 rebounds.