Getting a big lift from a new recruit, Cafe France ripped BDO-National University, 110-86, to grab a share of the early lead in the PBA D-League Aspirants Cup yesterday at Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.
After their first win, Cafe France coach Egay Macaraya wanted better chemistry between his holdovers and new players. And he got that with Paul Zamar, formerly of Cebuana Lhuillier, and Rod Ebondo combining for 41 points.
The one-sided win put the Bakers on top with idle Caida Tiles and University of the Philippines-QRS/Jam Liner at 2-0.
Wangs Basketball, meanwhile, rallied to a 97-88 overtime decision over newcomer Mindanao Aguilas for its first win in two games.
Gwyne Capacio unloaded nine of his 23 points in the extra period as the Couriers completed their comeback from 18 points down.
The scores:
First Game
CAFEFRANCE 110—Zamar 22, Ebondo 19, Cruz 15, Casino 12, Jeruta 11, De Leon 7, Manlangot 6, Villahermosa 6, Arim 5, Guinitaran 3, Abundo 2, Opiso 2, Celso 0.
BDO-NU 86—Salem 17, Alejandro 15, Javelona 9, Labing-isa 9, Tansingco 8, Perez 7, Salim 7, Diputado 6, Rono 6, Yu 2.
Quarters: 21-21, 48-33, 82-54, 110-86
Second Game
WANGS BASKETBALL 97—Capacio 23, Mangahas 18, Munsayac 17, Bautista 16, Vijandre 6, Ilad 5, Banal 4, Je. Montemayor 4, Cueto 2, Jo. Montemayor 2, Namocatcat 0.
MINDANAO 88—Garcia 23, Acibar 18, Jumao-as 15, Sarangay 11, Julkipli 5, Rivera 5, Ignacio 4, Ongteco 3, Rublico 2, Villanueva 2, De Guzman 0, Nalos 0, Wetherell 0.
Quarters: 10-24, 29-39, 50-62, 79-79 (reg.), 97-88 (OT)