Barako Bull explodes in 4th quarter to stun Star Hotshots

MANILA, Philippines (UPDATED) – The Barako Bull Energy came alive in the fourth quarter and stifled the Star Hotshots to come away with a 101-83 victory in the 2016 PBA Philippine Cup on Sunday, December 13 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Energy unloaded a massive 21-2 run in the payoff period sparked by a Josh Urbiztondo triple to turn a 67-71 deficit at the end of the third into a daunting 88-73 lead with 4:38 left courtesy of Jeric Fortuna’s 3-pointer.

Barako Bull, which improved to an even 5-5 record and still has a chance at a twice-to-beat advantage, outscored its opponents by 34-12 in that final frame. 

“Our obligation is just to give our best every day,” head coach Koy Banal said after the game in Filipino, recalling a 116-92 defeat against Blackwater two days ago.

“We failed to do that in our last game against Blackwater. I thought we played our worst game this conference in our game against Blackwater.“

Guard Urbiztondo showed the way for the Energy with a game-high 24 points on 5-of-10 shooting from downtown. JC Intal scattered 18 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists, a steal, and 3 blocks to help his team.

Veteran Willy Wilson also had 18 markers and 8 boards, including 8 points in the fourth period, while veteran Mick Pennisi finished with 14 points and 3 blocks.

Third year point guard Fortuna was a spark off the bench for Banal as the former UST Growling Tigers skipper bombarded the Hotshots will all 14 of his points in the fourth. Fortuna was a perfect 4-of-4 from the stripe and two-of-two from long range for a productive 18 minutes.

The Energy won the game despite missing the services of prolific guard RR Garcia, who dislocated his right shoulder last week.

Mark Barroca recorded his third straight double-figure game with a team-high 17 points along with 4 rebounds, 7 assists and a block.

James Yap added 12 points and 7 rebounds, while Ian Sangalang and Marc Pingris chipped in 11 and 10 points, respectively, as Star dropped to a 3-7 record.

Scores:





Quarter scores: 25-28; 45-45; 67-71; 101-83.

– Rappler.com