Carl Cruz’s 22-point explosion proved to be a huge boost for Gilas Pilipinas as they triumphed in yet another tune-up match, this time against the Blackwater Elite, 105-101, Friday evening at the Meralco Gym in Pasig City.
The Alaska Aces rookie starred for the Nationals when needed most, scoring 11 of his team’s last 18 points in the fourth quarter. He shot a notable 6-of-11 from the floor, with 5-of-10 coming from three-point distance.
Gilas even went ahead by as much as 12, 74-62, in the third canto, but key offensive contributions from James Sena and Mike DiGregorio lifted the Elite behind by just one, 84-83, to give out yet another serious threat.
However, Cruz nailed a corner trey to widen the gap, 87-83, and from there, Gilas’ juices were flowing. They zoomed to a 10-3 run after a deadlock at 95 to post a favorable 105-98 lead, enough to keep Blackwater at bay.
Fil-German Christian Standhardinger, who was Gilas’ hero last Wednesday in their 113-112 victory over NLEX Road Warriors, made his presence felt once more as he produced 13 markers and seven rebounds.
Gilas played in Friday night’s exhibition without fiery three-point gunner Matthew Wright due to back spasms. Point guard Jio Jalalon, meanwhile, left the match at the 4:38 mark of the third canto after hurting his left ankle.
Trevis Simpson led Blackwater with 23 markers. The high-flying import will be the Elite’s reinforcement in the upcoming PBA Governor’s Cup.
Gilas will have yet another tune-up match tomorrow, Saturday, July 8, against the Alaska Aces at the Gatorade Hoops Center.
