MANILA, Philippines – The retooled and new look Air21 Express finally nailed a win after that celebrated trade with San Miguel Beer as they squeaked past the erstwhile hot Rain or Shine Elasto Painters, 94-92, in today’s first game of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup held at the Araneta Coliseum in Cubao.
The four former SMB veterans combined with explosive reinforcement Alpha Bangura to keep the Elasto Painters at bay in the second half after a 50-all halftime standoff.
Bangura had a monstrous game and finished with a double-double with 41 points and 11 rebounds. Dondon Hontiveros chipped in 18 points to back up Bangura.
Rain or Shine had many chances to try and level with the Express. Missed free throws by Paul Artadi, Dondon Hontiveros and Danny Seigle almost proved costly, especially when Gabe Norwood was able to connect on a three pointer with 5 seconds to go.
However after a timeout, the Elasto Painters had a lapse in defense and were not able to immediately foul Bangura. The Express import escaped and dribbled the time away to give his team a much needed win.
For Rain or Shine, the loss marks their third straight loss after starting out with a 3-0 record. Hassam Adams led RoS with 27 points while Norwood had 16 markers.
Box Score:
Air 21 (94) - Bangura 41, Hontiveros 18, Juntilla 10, Seigle 6, Urbiztondo 4, Artadi 4, Pena 4, Najorda 3, Reyes 2, Sharma 2, Gonzales 0, Avenido 0, Arboleda 0.
Rain or Shine (92) - Adams 27, Norwood 16, Kramer 12, Vanlandingham 9, Jazul 9, Belga 7, Uyloan 3, Rodriguez 3, Cruz 2, Arana 2, Ferriols 2, Chan 0, Buenafe 0, Ibanes 0....
Quarters: 21-26, 50-50, 72-69, 94-92
0 Comments
