Stalwarts hold off Greats in PBA Blitz Game; Pacquiao scores 9

Team Stalwarts. PBA IMAGES

In a game where the oldies met the newbies, the Stalwarts fended off the Greats, 99-94, in the Blitz Game of the PBA All Star Manila Friday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Manny Pacquiao, who suited up for the Stalwarts as a last minute addition in the PBA All-Stars, had nine points all in the first half.

Raymond Almazan took the MVP honors after finishing with a game-high 23 points for the Stalwarts.

The Blitz Game is the showcase of rookies, sophomores, juniors, D-Leaguers, and Legends.

Chris Banchero and Almazan combined for a 6-0 closing run for the Stalwarts to establish a 99-91 lead with 11 seconds remaining to cap off the win.

Mike Tolomia and Nic Belasco also finished in double figures for the Stalwarts with 14 and 11 points, respectively.

Ian Sangalang had a team-high 14 points for the Greats while Jonathan Grey added 13.

The scores:
STALWARTS 99 – Almazan 23, Tolomia 14, Belasco 11, Pacquiao 9, Magsanoc 8, Cruz 8, Banchero 6, Robinson 6, Patrimonio 6, Semerad D. 4, Escoto 2, Banal 2.
GREATS 94 – Sangalang 14, Grey 13, Belo 10, Ahanmisi 10, Locsin 10, Daquioag 8, Pogoy 7, Semerad A. 7, Ravena 6, Bugia 6, Abarrientos 3.
Quarters: 25-20, 41-43, 66-71, 99-94.