CJ Austria showed nerves of steel in the dying seconds of the game, knocking down two clutch free throws to lift De La Salle University to a stunning 104-102 victory over Phoenix.
The win closes out its elimination game campaign in the Kadayawan Invitational Tournament on Saturday at the University of Southeastern Philippines Gym in Davao City.
Tied at 102-all, Austria, an incoming junior, drew a foul against former Green Archer Jason Perkins with 4.7 seconds left in the game. The guard from Laguna calmly sank both free throws to give La Salle the lead.
Off a timeout, RJ Jazul found himself free at the right elbow, but his three-point attempt missed as time expired.
This win is another significant achievement for the defending UAAP champions, who had defeated Converge 120-112 on Friday.
La Salle will take on Rain or Shine in the Final after the latter completed an elims sweep by way of a 119-108 victory over Converge.
Austria finished with 13 points on 10-of-14 shooting from the foul stripe, according to stats provided by Madayaw Sports Davao.
Kevin Quiambao led La Salle with 19 points, seven rebounds, and four assists, while Mike Phillips added a double-double with 16 points and 14 rebounds.
EJ Abadam also contributed 12 points in the win.
The Fuel Masters ended the pocket tournament with a 0-3 record.
Jay McKinnis led Phoenix with 27 points and 18 rebounds, while Perkins added 18 points.
In the second game, Aaron Fuller powered the Elasto Painters with a 21-point, seven-rebound performance.
Andrei Caracut also caught fire, dropping 20 markers on three triples.
The FiberXers, who finished with a 1-2 slate, was led by the 21 points of Schonny Winston. Scotty Hopson added 20 points in the defeat.
Rain or Shine defeated La Salle during their opening day encounter, 106-105.
