PBA D-LEAGUE IMAGES by Nuki Sabio
MANILA, Philippines – Putting its winless season behind, Cagayan held off Boracay Rum 88-79 Tuesday in the PBA D-League Aspirants Cup at the San Juan Arena.
The Rising Suns, who went 0-9 last season, chalked up their second straight win to grab an early lead in the standings.
“We’re gaining confidence,” said head coach Alvin Pua.
But a 2-0 start won’t keep Pua satisfied with his team’s performance, especially after squandering a 19-point lead it built late in the second quarter.
“They need to be molded more. They’re rushing their offense; earlier we posted almost a-20 point lead then they relaxed,” concerned Pua.
Lacking that killer’s instinct, the Rising Suns allowed the Waves to draw to within three twice, the last one 82-79 on a jump hook by Raymund Ilagan with 2:27 remaining.
“Players still lacked maturity.”
But that was the closest Boracay Rum would come as Cagayan managed to answer every run put up by the Waves.
Chris Exciminiano made it a two-possession game for the Rising Suns, 84-79, with 57.7 seconds left.
Exciminiano top scored with 23 points but it was Raymund Almazan, who did the most damage, with 20 points, 18 rebounds and four blocks.
“He looked intimidating, especially on defense,” said Pua.