Challenged by its coach to play with pride in the second half, Batangas came roaring back from a 22-point hole in the final period to score a 97-96 stunner over Wangs Basketball and stay in the hunt for a playoff berth in the 2017 PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup at JCSGO Gym.
Making his debut for Batangas, ex-La Salle standout Yutien Andrada scored on a follow-up with 11.9 seconds remaining as the Batangueños completed their comeback from a 70-92 deficit early in the fourth period for only their second victory in six outings.
AMA Online Education, playing without its top scorer Jeron Teng, strengthened its hold of fourth spot (5-2) with an 83-78 trouncing of Blustar Detergent earlier.
The Titans needed a strong finish to put away the Malaysians, who led 75-69 heading into the final 4:29.
Juami Tiongson and Ryan Arambulo stepped up in Teng’s absence by spearheading a late run.
“We relaxed and that gave the other team confidence,” said AMA coach Mark Herrera. “But we showed composure late in the game.”