AMA, Jumbo collide, try to boost D-League bid

AMA University and Jumbo Plastic aim to boost their playoff hopes when they collide Thursday in a crucial PBA D-League Foundation Cup encounter at Ynares Sports Arena.

Running fifth and sixth in standings, the Titans and Giants square off at 3 p.m. with the winner gaining a decisive edge in the race for the last quarterfinal spot.

AMA seeking a follow-up to its 107-80 victory over Kera Mix last week in a game where Dexter Maiquez and James Martinez sparkled with 23 points each. That win also snapped a three-game slide for the Titans (3-4).

The Giants (2-3) have not played since April 20 when they lost to Cebuana Lhuillier, 66-81.

Coach Stevenson Tiu’s charges are looking to avoid a third straight loss and climb back into contention.

Dennis Villamor and Philip Paniamogan are expected to lead the assault for the Giants.

Tanduay Light (2-4) also hopes to stay in the thick of the fight for a playoff spot when it tangles with struggling MP Hotel-Letran (1-4) in the 1 p.m. opener. Cedelf P. Tupas