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Michael Calisaan was at his best, lifting Che’Lu Bar and Grill-San Sebastian to an 83-70 victory over Perpetual Help Monday in the 2018 PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup at Pasig City Sports Center.
The senior forward was integral in the Revellers’ breakthrough win as he poured in 20 points on top of nine rebounds, two assists, and two steals.
Samboy de Leon added 16 markers and nine boards, while RK Ilagan had 13 points, eight dimes, and three rebounds.
Frontcourt Alfred Batino and Jeepy Faundo both had 10 markers as Che’Lu survived the onslaught led by Altas big man Prince Eze on both ends.
Che’Lu coach Stevenson Tiu attributed the win to his players’ talent as he himself admitted that he’s still adjusting to the team.
“We won because of the skills of our players and their talent. I admit that it’s also my fault because I still haven’t adjusted to them,” he said.
Allyn Bulanadi triggered a telling 16-4 blast that pushed the Revellers’ lead to 17, 77-60, with 4:03 left to play.
That blistering stretch was crucial for Che’Lu, which was grossly out-rebounded, 63-51. The Revellers, however, were able to cash in on the Altas’ 30 errors with 28 turnover points.
Eze topped Perpetual Help, which lost its debut under new coach Frankie Lim, with 15 points, 11 rebounds, and seven blocks.
The Scores:
CHE’LU BAR AND GRILL-SAN SEBASTIAN 83 — Calisaan 20, De Leon 16, Ilagan 13, Batino 10, Faundo 10, Bulanadi 6, Costelo 6, Calma 2, David 0, Lao 0, Santos 0, Valdez 0.
PERPETUAL 70 — Eze 15, Coronel 13, Villanueva 13, Jimenez 9, Charcos 7, Peralta 7, Gallardo 5, Pido 1, Antonio 0, Aurin 0, Tamayo 0, Tongco 0.
Quarters: 17-22, 34-38, 59-53, 83-70.