Phoenix dethrones Cafe France, marches on to PBA D-League Finals

Mike Tolomia leads Phoenix anew. PBA IMAGES

BACOOR – Mike Tolomia would not be denied as he towed Phoenix in dethroning Cafe France, 89-78, and into the 2016 PBA D-League Foundation Cup Finals Tuesday at Strike Gym here.

The MVP contender was just sensational in the decider, scattering 31 points to go with four assists and three rebounds to bring the Accelerators back to the championship round.

“He took charge and he really had that winner’s attitude,” said coach Eric Gonzales of his star guard.

Mac Belo provided the support for Phoenix in the victory with a double-double of 15 markers, 14 boards, three assists, and a block, Ed Daquioag got 12 points, and Roger Pogoy nailed three treys to wound up with 11 in the win.

“Our goal is to be there in the Finals. We want to win and play with all our hearts,” said Gonzales. “I’m just thankful sa players dahil sila-sila nag-usap and they knew how important this game is. It’s a good thing that they lived up to the challenge.”

Everything went the way of the Accelerators as the FEU duo led the second half assault to lead the Bakers by as much as 18, 80-62 midway in the fourth.

Phoenix also rekindled its outside shooting, going 15-of-39 from beyond the arc while also shutting down
Cafe France’s deep guard rotation.

Rod Ebondo was the lone bright spot for the Bakers with 25 points and 19 rebounds, while Mon Abundo got 10 in the exit.

The Scores:

PHOENIX 89 – Tolomia 31, Belo 15, Daquioag 12, Pogoy 11, Tamsi 9, Escoto 5, Andrada 2, Jamito 2, Batino 1, Mendoza 1, Colina 0, Inigo 0, Knuttel 0.
CAFE FRANCE 78 – Ebondo 25, Abundo 10, Cruz 7, Jeruta 6, Opiso 6, Casino 5, Zamar 4, Custodio 4, De Leon 4, Manlangit 4, Parala 2.

Quarters: 27-19, 45-40, 71-58, 89-78.