Teng drops 42 in PBA D-League debut as AMA wins opener

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Jeron Teng proved to be good as advertised for AMA Online Education, which hung on to a 101-95 season-opening win over Batangas Thursday in the 2017 PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup at Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.

The La Salle gunner scattered 42 points on a 12-of-27 shooting from the field that went with five rebounds and five assists to start his career in the developmental league.

Teng also had a hand in quashing the Batangueños’ late run, scoring seven straight points to bring the Titans back in front, 80-72, after Cedric De Joya cut the lead to just three early in the fourth. He also nailed the final five freebies to seal the victory.

“He fired us up and his leadership on the floor is important,” said coach Mark Herrera of his prized recruit.”This win is a big morale boost for us.”

Juami Tiongson also took charge in the payoff period, pouring 11 of his 15 markers in the final six minutes including a  layup in the final 36.6 to put the game out of reach, 96-87.

Ryan Arambulo added 13 points and four boards, while Jay-R Taganas was a rock down low for the Titans, hauling down 18 rebounds to go with his six markers in the victory.

Joseph Sedurifa topped Batangas with 25 points, five rebounds, and six assists, while Don Carlo Fortu came off the bench and wound up with 18 markers on a 6-of-12 shooting from threes in the loss.

The Scores:

AMA 101 – Teng 42, Tiongson 15, Arambulo 13, Olayon 10, Taganas 6, Dario 6, Alabanza 5, Barua 4, Carpio 0, Jordan 0, Bragais 0.
BATANGAS 95 – Sedurifa 25, Fortu 18, Isit 10, Menor 9, De Joya 8, Ablaza 6, Sara 5, Dela Pena 4, Anderson 4, Revadavia 4, Laude 2, Mendoza 1, Inciong 0, Delfinado 0.

Quarters: 23-16, 51-37, 73-68, 101-95.