Mark Isip scores game-winner as streaking Air21 holds off Alaska 104 103 | Inquirer Sports

Mark Isip scores game-winner as streaking Air21 holds off Alaska 104 103

By: - Reporter / @MarkGiongcoINQ
/ 08:55 PM November 14, 2012

Calvin Abueva vs Nonoy Baclao and Mark Isip (behind) PBA IMAGE by Nuki Sabio

MANILA, Philippines – Air21 head coach was all over Mark Isip, not liking how the forward opted to take low percentage shots the last several trips.

Responding to the challenge, Isip atoned for his mistakes with the game-winning basket to lift Air21 over Alaska 104-103 Wednesday in the 38th PBA Philippine Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Article continues after this advertisement

“Mark really made sure he converted that because I was upset in our last few possessions. I was in his face. It’s either he go hard to the basket or pass it out to his teammates,” said Pumaren.

FEATURED STORIES

Isip attempted from the right elbow with the ball bouncing first before going in with 6.1 seconds remaining.

The Aces, who grabbed a 103-102 cushion, on a free throw by Cyrus Baguio with 23.2 ticks left, had one last crack to steal the game but JVee Casio’s three-point attempt was way off as well as Calvin Abueva’s hurried putback from the baseline.

Article continues after this advertisement

“You have to give it to Alaska, they didn’t quit. They were aggressive and we relaxed a little bit. Credit also to my coaches for scouting,” added Pumaren.

Article continues after this advertisement

The Express chalked up its third straight win but it took everything they can to hold off the Aces.

Article continues after this advertisement

Air21 established a commanding lead 82-64 on a free throw by Bonbon Custodio at the 2:55 mark of the third period.

Still a team in progress, Air21 had several miscues that allowed Alaska to comeback. The Aces finally tied the count at 100 on an open three from Mac Baracael off a drive and kick by Cyrus Baguio.

Article continues after this advertisement

Rookie Calvin Abueva still made his presence felt despite being hobbled by foul trouble, making an impact on both ends.

Abueva had a key steal, botched a one-handed dunk but was fortunate enough to recover his own miss and convert to put Alaska up, 102-100, with 1:47 remaining.

Niño Canaleta led the Express, who improved to 4-5, with 21 points. Mike Cortez added 12 points, five rebounds and 11 assists.

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Subscribe to our daily newsletter

By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

Baracael scored a game-high 24 points. Alaska absorbed its third straight setback for a 5-5 record.

TAGS: Air21, Alaska, Basketball, News, PBA, Sports

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Subscribe to our newsletter!

By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

© Copyright 1997-2024 INQUIRER.net | All Rights Reserved

This is an information message

We use cookies to enhance your experience. By continuing, you agree to our use of cookies. Learn more here.