Talk ‘N Text nips Alaska

Jason Castro tossed in a career-high 33 points and led Talk ‘N Text to a 114-111 overtime victory over Alaska  in the PLDT MyDSL PBA Philippine Cup eliminations at Mall of Asia Arena last night.

Castro, who also had five rebounds and four assists, got his 33rd point from a bonus free throw off a foul on Aldrech Ramos with 2:11 remaining which actually put the Texters in the lead to stay, 109-108, for their second win in three outings.

The loss was the second straight for the Aces in a 1-3 card after they flubbed several golden chances, including two free throws by Dondon Hontiveros with 15.8 seconds remaining which would have erased a 111-112 deficit.

JV Casio forged the extension at 103 by hitting a triple with 22 seconds remaining.

But the former No. 1 pick in the Draft missed the last two Alaska attempts, including what looked like a makeable layup after a great drive which would have tied it at 113.

“We knew this game was really going to be tough. It was one of those games that we had to gut it out,” said coach Norman Black while letting out a huge sigh of relief.

Talk ‘N Text will also welcome new recruit Danny Seigle to the lineup in their next game against Globalport. The Texters acquired the former all-star from Barako Bull.

The scores:

First Game

TALK ‘N TEXT 114—Castro 33, Alapag 20, Fonacier 18, Carey 15, Williams 7, Reyes 7, Poligrates 5, Peek 4, Anthony 3, Baclao 2, Celiz 0, Reyes 0.

ALASKA 111—Ramos 20, Thoss 16, Hontiveros 15, Abueva 14, Casio 13, Espinas 12, Baguio 10, Jazul 7, Dela Cruz 2, Eman 2, Avenido 0, Buenafe 0.

Quarters: 28-24, 50-48, 75-74, 103-103, 114-111