Rayul Suyod of Derulo (dark) vs ar Villahermosa, Dexter Maiquez and Adrian Celada of Big Chill (light). PBA D-LEAGUE IMAGE by Nuki Sabio
MANILA, Philippines — Derulo Accelero leaned on a double-double effort by Raul Soyud to end its winless run at the expense of Big Chill, 77-76, in the 2014 PBA D-League Foundation Cup Monday at the JCSGO Gym in Cubao.
Soyud notched 16 points and 17 rebounds to will the Oilers to their first win after a 0-6 start.
“We know we’re out of it (playoffs) but we’re still motivated to win our remaining games because we want to earn some respect. We believe we deserved to be in this league,” said Derulo Accelero coach Paulo Mendoza.
Derulo took a 76-66 lead with only three minutes left but lacking a strong “finishing kick,” Mendoza pointed out, Big Chill came storming back that paved the way for a wild windup.
Fortunately for the Oilers, their defense held up in the closing minutes as they sent the struggling Superchargers, last conference’s losing finalist, to their fourth setback in seven outings and on the verge of possibly missing the quarterfinals.
Jiovani Jalalon added 17 points and seven assists while Michael Juico posted 15 points for the Oilers.
“Right now the guys are really excited. They’ve long waited for this moment. I’m sure this win will boost their confidence,” Mendoza said.
Stocky guard Brian Heruela paced Big Chill with 19 points. Mar Villahermosa had 13.