Jay-r Taganas of AMA (Red) vs Ed Daquioa and Nicole Bangga of Breadstory (Orange). PBA D-LEAGUE IMAGE by Nuki Sabio
MANILA, Philippines — AMA University blew a big lead before holding off Bread Story-Lyceum, 97-89, in the 2015 PBA D-League Aspirants Cup Monday at the JCSGO Gym in Cubao.
Joseph Eriobu scored 19 points while Jay-R Taganas had another double-double with 15 points and 18 rebounds for the Titans, who upped their mark to 3-3.
The Titans built a huge lead early and took a 25-point lead in the fourth quarter before the Pirates showed signs of life behind Louie Vigil and Jiovani Jalalon.
“Our lack of experience showed. But I thought the guys also showed their character down the stretch,” said AMA University coach Mark Herrera.
A steal and layup by Jalalon, who had a breakout NCAA year after leading the Arellano Chiefs to the finals, brought Bread Story to within five, 93-88, with still 52 seconds to go.
The Titans managed to hold on thanks to their steady shooting at the stripe.
Vigil, the University of Santo Tomas swingman, pumped in a game-high 25 points while Jalalon added 18 points but their efforts weren’t enough as the Pirates dropped to 2-4.