Bradwyn Guinto of Cebuana (dark) vs Jessie Saitanan of Racal (light). PBA D-LEAGUE IMAGE by Nuki Sabio
MANILA, Philippines — Cebuana Lhuillier bucked a bad start before cruising past new team Racal Motors, 89-70, in the 2015 PBA D-League Aspirants Cup Monday at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.
The Gems fell behind by 14 early before turning the game around in the second quarter where they outscored their opponents, 28-12.
“We wanted to improve our standing season and we want to improve every practice and every possession,” said Cebuana head coach Boycie Zamar.
“That’s one of the hardest things to deal with as a team,” Zamar said of his team’s slow start. “It’s a good thing that we’re able to recover.”
San Sebastian Stags’ star center Bradwyn Guinto notched a double-double with 18 points and 14 rebounds while guards Allan Mangahas and Paul Pontejos scored 13 points each.
Mangahas, who also grabbed four rebounds and dished out five assists, made it a 20-point game, 72-52, on a fastbreak layup.
Marte Gil had 15 points for Racal Motors.
The Gems played without Norbert Torres and Kevin Ferrer, who is still recuperating from a wrist injury he suffered in the UAAP. Torres just completed his requirements and has yet to be given the go signal to play.
“Hopefully next game,” Zamar said on whether Ferrer and Torres will be able to suit up when Cebuana faces fellow preseason favorite Jumbo Plastic next week.
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