Cuan likes what he sees in new import Carter

Nailing a second straight victory to close in on the leaders of the Asean Basketball League wasn’t the only reason why Alab Pilipinas coach Mac Cuan was in the mood to celebrate Friday night.

Cuan liked what he saw from import Sampson Carter as well as journeyman Robbie Celiz, who helped key the gutsy 87-79 victory over the Westsports Malaysia Dragons at Baliwag Star Arena in Bocuae, Bulacan.

Carter, who hit the game-winner in the 64-62 overtime win over the Singapore Slingers last Sunday, had 15 points and 11 rebounds, while Celiz dished out his best game for Alab with 14 points.

“Sampson (Carter) is learning how to play the Filipino style and we’re seeing more aggression and intensity from his game,” said Cuan, after Alab improved to 9-4, behind leaders Hong Kong Eastern Long Lions (8-2) and Singapore Slingers (10-4).

“I’m very happy to see Celiz play that well because that’s what we expected from him when we acquired him,” said Cuan, whose team can tie the Slingers at second with a win against the Dragons on Sunday this time in Cyberjaya.

Ray Parks wound up with 15 points, while JR Cawaling had another solid game against the Malaysians with 14 points to match James Hughes’ output as Alab led from start to finish.