D-League: CEU thumps AMA to boost semis bid

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Centro Escolar University strengthened its bid for a semifinals berth after trampling on winless AMA University, 82-71, in the PBA D-League Foundation Cup Thursday at Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.

The Scorpions improved to fourth place behind a 5-4 slate while the Titans remained dead last with a 0-9 card.

“I think we were able to establish our attitude towards the game and we really fought because actually it’s harder to play teams like this because there’s no more pressure, there’s nothing to lose but everything to gain,” Scorpions head coach Derrick Pumaren said.

Looking to finally get into the win column, the Titans ignited a 10-3 run to cut the deficit to 14 heading into the final frame after trailing 40-61.

But the Scorpions, who held AMA to a 32.1 percent shooting clip, managed to wrest back control in the payoff period en route to the win.

CEU had 28 second-chance points compared to the Titans’ 15.

Pierce Chan had a game-high 30 points and 13 rebounds to lead the Scorpions while Rich Guinitaran added 15 markers.

Domark Matillano had 23 points for AMA. Ma. Angelica D. Garcia