Alaska rises to 3-0 after win over Mahindra

MANILA, Philippines – Calvin Abueva went for 17 points on 6-of-8 shooting plus 6 rebounds and the Alaska Aces rolled to a 98-92 victory over the Mahindra Floodbuster on Wednesday, March 29 at the Mall of Asia Arena.

The Aces have yet to lose in 3 games in the 2017 PBA Commissioner’s Cup, but after squandering an 18-point lead and narrowing the final tally, coach Alex Compton is inclined to see more from his men.

“We didn’t like how we played in the last minute but outside of it, our guys did a great job,” he said. “In terms of the record, couldn’t ask for anything more. In terms of the play, I’m expecting more.”

Import Cory Jefferson posted 30 points and 11 rebounds while Sonny Thoss filled in 11 markers in the win where Alaska quickly established a double-digit lead in the first half.

Mahindra, which slipped to 1-3, had reinforcement James White leading the way with 30 points, 14 rebounds, and 3 blocks.

Mark Yee and LA Revilla added 13 and 12 points, respectively, but it wasn’t enough to give them a much-needed victory.

Scores:

Alaska (98): Jefferson 30, Abueva 17, Thoss 11, Racal 8, Cruz 8, Enciso 6, Exciminiano 5, Galliguez 5, Pascual 2, Casio 2, Mendoza 2, Andrada 2, Magat 0. 

Mahindra (92): White 30, Yee 13, Revilla 12, David 10, Mallari 7, Celda 5, Paniamogan 5, Guevarra 2, Teng 2, Galanza 2, Ballesteros 2, Elorde 2, Deutchman 0, Caperal 0, Salva 0.

Quarter scores: 28-18, 50-40, 74-61, 98-92.

– Rappler.com