Allen Durham powers Barako Bull past TNT into playoffs

Allen Durham of Barako Bull (light) vs Paul Harris and Jimmy Alapag of Talk N Text (dark). PBA IMAGE by Nuki Sabio

MANILA, Philippines—Just three days after notching a treble-double in his debut, Barako Bull Allen Durham nearly posted another rare feat Tuesday night.

Durham just missed a 30-30 game with 28 points and 29 rebounds to lead the Energy to a big win over erstwhile leader Talk ‘N Text and into the playoffs of the 2014 PBA Governors’ Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

“It’s a good feeling but we just got to keep working and keep getting better,” said Barako Bull head coach Siot Tanquingcen on making the quarterfinals.

“He (Durham) makes a big difference. My players are also having the confidence to shoot because they know Durham is a strong rebounder. Not taking anything away from Eric Wise (former import), he is a good player but Durham is just a better fit,” said Tanquingcen.

The Energy, who outscored the Tropang Texters, 28-13, in the fourth period, improved to 3-5 and 2-0 with the physical specimen Durham in tow.

Keith Jensen added 17 points on three-of-six shooting from long range while guards Willie Miller and Jeric Fortuna had 15 and 11 points, respectively for Barako Bull.

Paul Harris finished with 22 points and 14 rebounds for the Texters, who lost their grip of first place as they slid into a tie at the top with the San Mig Coffee Mixers at 5-2.

The bull-strong Durham collected 32 points, 24 rebounds and 10 assists in a 122-98 drubbing of Globalport last Sunday.