John Foronda of Cagayan Valley (dark) vs Jam Cortes of Arellano-Air21 (light). PBA D-LEAGUE IMAGE by Nuki Sabio
MANILA, Philippines — Cagayan Valley fashioned out a 92-75 win over Arellano-Air21 to go 3-0 in the PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup Tuesday at the San Juan Arena.
And ironically, Nard Pinto, who just recently played for Arellano in the NCAA, did the most damage with 23 points on eight-of-12 shooting as the Rising Suns continue to top the standings.
“I thought we played well. Our defense clicked in the third quarter,” said Cagayan assistant coach Toto Dojillo.
Pinto also collected five assists, two steals and one block while also getting plenty of help from his teammates with Don Trollano scoring 17 points and Adrian Celada adding 14 for the Rising Suns, who are having their best start.
The Chiefs reeled to their second straight loss in as many games.
Arellano found itself still in striking distance until Cagayan broke the game open midway through the third period thanks to a 16-7 run anchored by John Foronda and Pinto, who capped the surge with a three-point basket that extended the Suns lead to 14, 74-60, entering the final frame.