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.
“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.
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.
“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.
The Express chalked up its third straight win but it took everything they can to hold off the Aces.
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.
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.
Baracael scored a game-high 24 points. Alaska absorbed its third straight setback for a 5-5 record.