Cebuana strikes down MP Hotel prior to D-League playoffs

MANILA, Philippines—Getting warmed up just before the PBA D-League playoffs, the Cebuana Lhuillier Gems toyed with the MP Hotel Warriors, 93-62, at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig Thursday afternoon.

The Gems had their luster shining and never let up, especially in the second half where they put the Warriors in a vice grip.

Almond Vosotros gave Cebuana a 20-point lead, 56-36, early in the third and the Gems left the Warriors behind in a sorry pile of rubble.

Gems head coach Boyzie Zamar said they have to change the mindset of the players and not rely on the loss of Jumbo Plastic Linoleum Giants to get a twice-to-beat advantage in the playoffs

Cebuana has a 7-4 record in the eliminations while Jumbo has a 7-3 slate.

In the event that the Giants lose their final game against the MJM M-Builders, the Gems would have a twice-to-beat advantage in the playoffs.

If the Giants win, they would have the advantage, courtesy of their win against Cebuana in the eliminations.

“Just the mindset, we need to change that, what is important is that we get to two wins,” Zamar said. “We can’t assign our fate on other teams.”

Vosotros again gave Cebuana a better buffer with 8:09 remaining in the fourth, putting the Gems up 77-54.

Norbert Torres pushed his weight around for 22 points, eight rebounds, six assists and three steals for the Gems.

Vosotros added 13 points and five assists.

Hernal Escosio and John Jamon had 11 points each for MP Hotel.

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