Tanduay stuns UP-Jam, enters Aspirants’ last 4

JEFF Javillonar of Tanduay soars for a layup off Kevin Ferrer of UP-Jam Liner in yesterday’s match at Ynares Sports Arena. AUGUST DELA CRUZ

J.P. BELENCION exploded for 27 points as Tanduay completed a stunning reversal over UP QRS-Jam Liner, 99-89, yesterday to advance to the semifinals of the PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup at Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.

Belencion found his groove in the second half, capping his explosion with critical free throws down the stretch that helped put away the Maroons, who entered the quarterfinal series with a twice-to-beat advantage.

The victory shoved the Rhum Masters to a best-of-three duel with the Cafe France Bakers. Interestingly, Tanduay is the only team that has beaten Cafe France in the tournament.

Lucas Tagarda chipped in 14 points for the Rhum Masters, who gained a semifinal seat for the first time since the 2013 Foundation Cup.

“It’s been awhile since we reached the semifinals,” said Tanduay coach Lawrence Chongson. “We’ve been in the D-League for so long so it’s poetic justice.”

Adrian Santos contributed 13 points and five rebounds, while Jeff Javillonar finished with 12 points for the Rhum Masters who pulled away with a 21-7 run in the third period.

The Maroons came within 87-93 with 1:10 left, before Belencion and Tagarda nailed free throws to seal the victory.

Gelo Alolino led the Maroons with 24 points, while Aguilar had 17 and five boards.

The scores:
TANDUAY 99—Belencion 27, Tagarda 14, Santos 13, Javillonar 12, Lingganay 10, Llagas 8, Acuña 4, Celda 4, Pessumal 4, Wetherell 3, Gotladera 0.
UP QRS/JAM LINER 89—Alolino 24, Aguilar 17, Ferrer 15, Soyud 15, Desiderio 6, Lim 6, Batino 4, Villarias 2, Moralde 0, Neypes 0, Sorela 0.
Quarters: 28-21, 41-45, 66-56, 99-89