The Batangas-EAC Generals survived a furious endgame uprising from the Jose Rizal University Heavy Bombers and pull off the 81-71 stunner, Monday afternoon at the Pasig Sports Center.
Cedric Ablaza top-scored the Generals with 16 points, 11 rebounds, three assists, and two blocks, but contributions were abound for the team, who finally halted their four-game losing streak and nabbed their breakthrough win.
“We’ve been wanting to win and we’re very thankful na yung game plan, nagawa namin ng maayos. What more can I ask for?,” said coach Ariel Sison, who had seemingly lost his voice in celebration after finally ending the drought.
The trio of Jerome Garcia, Cedric De Joya, and Earvin Mendoza all chipped in 11 markers each, while helping the cellar-dwelling side finally see the light halfway through the conference.
Batangas-EAC shell-shocked JRU early to grab a 20-8 lead at the end of the first period, pouncing on the dazed opposition on their way to a 26-point edge, 66-39 late in the third quarter.
The Heavy Bombers got their bearings back late, chipping the lead away, and got the deficit down to six, 71-77 in the final 24.5 seconds courtesy of a Jed Mendoza free throw split.
However, the comeback bid was not to be, as Ablaza and De Joya drained the game-sealing buckets to end the rally and seal the game shut.
“Ang ganda ng halfcourt execution namin. Doon kami talaga sinuwerte,” said Sison. “Sana ma-sustain yung win. Sana, hindi lang ito ang una’t huli naming panalo.”
Jeckster Apinan and newcomer Kris Porter led the way for the skidding JRU with 16 points apiece.
The Heavy Bombers have now suffered four straight losses to fall to a three-way tie in the cellar at 1-4 with the AMA Titans and Batangas-EAC.
The Scores:
Batangas-EAC 81 — Ablaza 16, De Joya 11, Garcia 11, E. Mendoza 11, Diego 8, Laude 8, Bautista 6, J. Mendoza 6, Dela Peña 4, Estacio 0, Neri 0.
JRU 71 — Apinan 16, Porter 16, Pontejos 11, De Guzman 10, Mendoza 10, Dela Virgen 5, Esguerra 2, Sawat 1, Ramos 0, Tobiano 0.
Quarterscores: 20-8, 41-30, 66-43, 81-71.
