Alaska ends misery, snaps Barako Bull’s 4-game run

MANILA, Philippines—Hitting two birds with one stone, Alaska halted its five-game tailspin and snapped Barako Bull’s four-game winning streak.

Behind a career-night from Sonny Thoss, the Aces repulsed the Energy, 93-72, Wednesday in the PBA Philippine Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

“Sonny (Thoss) was brilliant in his decision making, he knew exactly what he needed to do,” said Alaska head coach Joel Banal.

Thoss, a six-foot-seven center, powered his way to a personal best 27 points and hauled down 12 rebounds to go along with three assists.

“We tried to be patient and just reminded them [to control] the offense and [stay] aggressive on defense. I hope we cando it again. We got our tempo in the second half and we attacked,” added Banal.

Alaska, which won its first game in six outings, pulled away in the final quarter as it outscored Barako Bull, 32-18, led by prized rookie Mac Baracael.

Baracael, tabbed as the sixth pick, added 16 points while playmaker LA Tenorio came through with 15 markers.

The Energy led, 40-36, at the half but failed to sustain their momentum.

Dylan Ababou continued to show that he is the biggest steal of the draft with 19 points to pace Barako Bull.

Ababou, a one-time UAAP MVP with University of Santo Tomas and a former Smart Gilas mainstay, was selected 10th overall.

Willie Miller was held to just five points.

THE SCORES:

ALASKA, 93 – Thoss, 27; Baracael, 16; Tenorio, 15; Baguio, 10; De la Cruz, 9; Reyes, 8; Cablay, 8; Custodio, 0; Eman 0.

BARAKO, 72 – Ababou, 19; Allado, 11; Salvacion, 10; Seigle, 9; Artadi, 6; Miller, 5; Salvador, 4;  Pena, 4; Pennisi, 2; Arboleda, 2; Sorongon, 0; Avenido, 0.
Quarters: 18-17, 36-40, 61-54, 93-72