Manuel, Racal help Alaska beat Phoenix in tuneup

FILE – Alaska Aces big man Vic Manuel looks to pass the ball during a game against the Magnolia Hotshots. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — Alaska pulled away in the fourth quarter to beat Phoenix, 98-87, Monday at Upper Deck Sports Center in Pasig City.

The Aces outscored the Fuel Masters, 21-11, in the first six minutes of the final frame to break the game wide open.

Kevin Racal scored eight of his nine points during that crucial stretch for Alaska, which turned a two-point edge into a 90-78 lead.

Vic Manuel led all scorers with 25 points that went with nine rebounds while Mike DiGregorio added 13 points off the bench for the Aces.

The game is part of a mini-tournament, which also features NLEX and San Miguel Beer, organized by Phoenix.

Jason Perkins paced the Fuel Masters with 20 points and nine rebounds.

Alaska faces NLEX next on Wednesday at 12 noon while Phoenix clashes with San Miguel Beer at 10 a.m.