Romeo propels GlobalPort to blowout win over new-look Mahindra

MANILA, Philippines (UPDATED) – Terrence Romeo and the rest of GlobalPort powered through in the opening quarter as the Batang Pier cruised past a new-look Mahindra, 97-75, at the 2017 PBA Philippine Cup on Friday, November 25 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. 

Romeo catapulted his team to victory, putting up 29 points and 6 assists for the Batang Pier, who are playing under a new shot caller in Adamson University’s head coach Franz Pumaren. 

Pumaren may have failed to advance the Falcons in the ongoing UAAP Final Four, but is seemingly off to a good start in the new PBA season as GlobalPort kept the Floodbusters at bay throughout the game. His squad welcomed the season with a fast start, limiting Mahindra to only 9 points in the first quarter. 

The Floodbusters, who shot only 34% from the field, failed to break the ice early on. Coach Chris Gavina handed out playing time to all his players, but still succumbed to GlobalPort’s powerful offense. 

Stanley Pringle had 16 markers and 8 boards, while JR Quinahan debuted with 10 points and 7 rebounds. Gilas player Von Pessumal started his rookie year contributing 8 points for Batang Pier. 

Alex Mallari, who scored 5 of Mahindra’s 9 points in the opening quarter, finished with 17 markers.

Scores:

GlobalPort (97): Romeo 29, Pringle 16, Quinahan 10, Canaleta 9, Pessumal 8, Pennisi 5, Semerad 5, Aban 5, Maierhofer 4, Mamaril 4, Saitanan 2

Mahindra (75): Mallari 17, Deutchman 14, Celda 10, Apinan 10, Escoto 6, Revilla 5, Yee 5, Digregorio 4, Arana 2, Eriobu 2. – Rappler.com