MANILA, Philippines—Gary David was in his usual self as Powerade rolled to a 79-67 victory over winless Alaska Sunday in the 37th PBA Philippine Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
David handily pumped in 26 points on an 8-of-13 shooting night on top of three rebounds and three assists.
The Tigers, who have yet to unveil top rookie JV Casio due to injury, quenched their second win in three stints while also handing the Aces their third straight setback.
“I’m quite confident that given more time together we can even be better,” said Powerade coach Bo Perasol.
Powerade also drew another decent performance from its other rookie Marcio Lassiter.
Lassiter, tabbed as the No. 4 pick, scored 13 points to go along with four rebounds and four assists.
The former Smart Gilas wingman also nailed a crucial triple that brought the Tigers’ lead back to eight, 74-66, with 3:50 left, and that totally held off a furious fightback by Alaska.
The Aces had futile offense from its usual hitters as guards LA Tenorio and Cyrus Baguio were limited to a combined measly nine points.