Titans blow early lead, escape Aguilas

Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

AMA University enhanced its quarterfinals chances after nipping Mindanao, 91-85, in overtime in the 2016 PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup Tuesday at San Juan Arena.

Rashawn McCarthy and RR de Leon combined for 10 of the Titans’ 13 points in OT with the former Asean Basketball League guard scoring six points during a crucial 10-2 spurt.

“When we give our players more playing time, their confidence goes up,” said AMA head coach Mark Herrera in Filipino after his team improved to 2-4.

McCarthy had an all around game, collecting 20 points, 12 rebounds, four assists, three steals and a couple of blocks in nearly 36 minutes of action.

De Leon added 14 points, including back-to-back jumpers from the baseline that put AMA ahead for good, 84-81, with 2:17 remaining. A 3-pointer followed by a free throw and another basket put the game away, 90-83, with 46.3 ticks to go.

Jammer Jamito also recorded a double-double with 20 points and 10 rebounds. He scored 17 points in the first half, nine coming in the opening quarter to set the tone for the Titans, who zoomed to a 30-10 lead in the first period.

“He (Jamito) just didn’t get any break from his previous teams. You saw what he can do when he’s given time to play,” said Herrera.

Ken Acibar posted 23 points and 11 rebounds to lead the Aguilas (1-5) while Mark Sarangay tallied 19 before fouling out with still 4:30 left in OT.

Aguilas forward Rob Celiz extended the game on three free throws with 15.3 seconds left. The former pro had 17.

Down by only four with under two minutes left, Mindanao big man JR Ongteco muffed an easy lay-in after he hung on the rim that sent the ball bouncing out.