Texters defeat Mixers to tie PBA finals series
Ranidel De Ocampo of Talk N Text (dark) vs Joe Devance of San Mig (light). PBA IMAGE by Nuki Sabio
MANILA, Philippines — Talk N’ Text held on to defeat San Mig Coffee, 86-76, and tie the 2014 PBA Commissioner’s Cup finals at one game apiece on Sunday.
Jayson Castro provided the jolt the Texters needed after the sorry game 1 loss which snapped a 13-game streak and turned in an all-around performance with 30 points, seven rebounds, five assists, and four steals.
“I should make a special mention to Jayson Castro, who carried us offensively. He’s basically the one they’re targeting defensively. He did a better job on attacking, passing the ball,” said head coach Norman Black.
Castro knocked down a crucial triple with 2:45 to play which snapped the momentum of the Mixers, who came within two possessions after trailing by as many as 18 early in the fourth.
Talk N’ Text took an early lead and managed to build a huge cushion when their shots from beyond the arc started falling in the third period.
“Effort was the no. 1 thing [that got us going]. Much more effort tonight. Lot more intensity and energy,” said Black of the victory.
Richard Howell added 18 points and 20 huge rebounds for the Texters while Larry Fonacier, Ranidel De Ocampo and Kelly Williams combined for 15.
Game 3 of the best-of-five series is on Tuesday also at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The Mixers lost the chance to go up a pivotal 2-0 lead with players like James Yap and PJ Simon playing minimal minutes due to fatigue.
James Mays, who sparked San Mig Coffee’s late run which gave Talk N’ Text quite a scare, finished with 15 points — half of which coming from the fourth — and 12 boards, two assists, and four steals.
Justin Melton was big off the bench with 15 points built on 3-of-4 three point shooting, and came out never losing the energy which the Mixers just didn’t have this game.
“They certainly turned the table on us tonight. They came out more aggressive, sharper and more alert. I can’t say we were more confident, I think we were more tired,” said head coach Tim Cone.
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