University of Perpetual Help System Dalta pulled away in the third quarter and never looked behind en route to a 93-82 debut win over PSP in the 2023 PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup, Tuesday at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.
The Altas exploded for 32 points in the third frame that proved to be the telling tale in the previously airtight first-half duel as they kept the Gymers at bay from there on for a 1-0 slate in the seven-team D-League tilt.
“We really need this win kasi dito magsisimula ‘yung journey namin all throughout the year. Kumbaga, early warning sa’min and good thing, nanalo,” said head coach Myk Saguiguit, who personally watched the impressive debut of PSP against Marinerong Pilipino-San Beda to scout.
PSP pulled the rug from under San Beda, 94-92, via an epic comeback win and it paved the way for Perpetual to plot a successful attack, made possible by a 28-13 blast to open the second half for a sudden 65-50 command.
Arthur Roque chalked up 27 points, 10 rebounds, two assists and two steals in only 24 minutes of play to banner the balanced attack of the Altas, who also drew 16 points from Cyrus Nitura.
Skipper Jielo Razon and Carlo Ferreras chipped in 13 markers apiece with Mark Omega hauling down 15 rebounds plus six points, a steal and a block.
Jayvee Dela Cruz fired 23 points for the Gymers, who could not essay another come-from-behind win after bridging the gap to only as close as five points, 64-69, early in the fourth.
Val Acuña (16) and Dariel James Bayla (15) also put up solid efforts for PSP (1-1).
The Scores:
Perpetual 93 – Roque 27, Nitura 16, Razon 13, Ferreras 13, Omega 6, Sevilla 6, Movida 3, Ramirez 3 Abis 2, Nunez 2, Pagaran 2, Barcoma 0, Flores 0, Boral 0.
PSP Gymers 82 – Dela Cruz 23, Acuña 16, Bayla 15, Yutuc 7, Gabriel 5, Dino 5, Olegario 3, Mohammad 2, Velchez 2, Soriano 2, Castillo 2.
Quarterscores: 22-16, 37-37, 69-56, 93-82
