MANILA, Philippines – Ola Adeogun returned to help Fruitas beat Big Chill 88-81 Tuesday in the PBA D-League Aspirants Cup at the Trinity University of Asia gym.
Adeogun, who missed two games due to a sprained ankle, came back to notch 14 points, 14 rebounds and five blocks.
“Ola (Adeogun) brings in a lot to this team defensively and offensively,” said Fruitas coach Nash Racela.
Carlo Lastimosa chalked up his second straight 30-point game with 32 points, 19 of which came in the second half as the Shakers improved to 3-3.
“He (Lastimosa) has been consistent the last six games.”
Fruitas shook off a lethargic start and an 8-23 deficit it faced in the opening quarter.
The Superchargers, who suffered their second consecutive setback after going 4-0, failed to sustain their form in the second half as the Shakers, thanks to Lastimosa and Adeogun, got off to a fast start in the third period.
Big Chill moved to within one 77-78 in the fourth period after trailing by 14 on a nifty basket by Mac Montilla.
But Fruitas was able to make the stops down the stretch to keep Big Chill at bay.
“I think it was our defense that was remarkable today. Caram and Terso took turns in defending Romeo.”
Terrence Romeo had a team-high 18 points but was scoreless in the payoff period.
Ryan Buenafe and Montilla added 13 points apiece.
“This win gives us a better chance to make it in the playoffs,” added Racela.