Mandani hits game-winner to lift Tanduay over MJM

Ronnie De Leon of Tanduay Rhum is fouled by Cris Tolomia of MJM M- Builders on Monday at the Ynares Pasig Arena. INQUIRER PHOTO/AUGUST DELA CRUZ

MANILA, Philippines —AJ Mandani hit the game-winning basket and Tanduay Light escaped MJM, 78-77, in the 2015 PBA D-League Aspirants Cup Monday at the Ynares Sports Arena.

Mandani, the former PBA guard, scored the game-winner near the basket off a baseline inbound pass by Gab Banal with 3.4 seconds remaining.

“We just ran the play that coach drew up,” said Mandani. “I got open and I got the good look.”

“It was a great team effort. Everybody played their hearts out and it was a big team win.”

Mandani had six points, five rebounds and four assists. Roi Sumang led the Rum Makers with 16 points.

Glenn Khobuntin had 18 points while Gelo Alolino added 16 for the M-Builders. Mac Belo scored 13 after a rough start.

Khobuntin gave MJM the lead, 77-76, with 21.8 seconds after trailing by as much as 11.

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