CALAMBA, LAGUNA — Felix Apreku sustained Pasig-Sta. Lucia’s dream run in Leg 3 of the 2020 Chooks-to-Go Pilipinas 3×3 President’s Cup powered by TM, carrying his side to a 21-9 rout (6:45) of Palayan City Capitals to advance to their first championship berth, Sunday in INSPIRE Academy here.
The former Letran Knight outmuscled the opposition as he powered his squad with 11 points, but more importantly, got the better end of the highly physical battle in this tournament that is sanctioned by the Games and Amusements Board and endorsed by FIBA 3X3.
Apreku’s might down low came big for the Realtors as they forced the Capitals to commit their seventh foul, pushing them into penalty situation with 7:18 left in the match and allowing Pasig to bruise their way down low and make a living from the free throw line.
Jhaps Bautista added six points, all coming from deep as his deuce with 3:15 to spare booked the Realtors’ historic run to the finals.
Palayan City just couldn’t solve the puzzle that was Apreku, as JP Sarao proved to be the lone bright spot for its side with five points.
The win arranged another intense battle in the championship round, with Uling Roasters-Butuan City also out to take home the P100,000 cash prize.
Franky Johnson carried Butuan to a 21-18 (6:44) victory over Bacolod Master Sardines, to once again reach the Finals for the second time in three legs.
The Fil-Am guard bombarded their foes with nine points, including the tough lay-in with 3:16 left as they seek for their first crown after settling for a bridesmaid finish in Leg 1.
Veteran Chico Lanete chimed in six in the win for Butuan.
Robin Rono captained Bacolod with eight in the defeat to settle for the third place honors.
