Hot start propels GlobalPort past winless Star

By Randolph B. Leongson

GlobalPort built enough cushion to survive Star’s late fightback, 91-84, in the 2017 PBA Philippine Cup Friday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Banking on a 29-8 first quarter, the Batang Pier established enough breathing room with Stanley Pringle leading their side to their second win.

“I guess the key here was we set the tempo from the start and we were able to dictate the pace of the game,” said GlobalPort coach Franz Pumaren. “We’re putting more emphasis on team defense and it showed today.”

Pringle topped GlobalPort with 24 points, 12 coming in the opening frame salvo, on top of three rebounds, two assists, two steals, and a block.

Terrence Romeo also pounced Star with 18 markers, eight dimes, and two boards, while Nino Canaleta got 12 points and seven rebounds.

Sitting at joint first with Rain or Shine at 2-0, Pumaren doesn’t want GlobalPort to feel confident with its standing.

“It’s still an early gauge for us. The real test will be in the coming games,” he said, knowing both of the Batang Pier’s victories came from routs.

“This will be a good springboard for us. Slowly, our players are accepting what we’re trying to do right now and everybody is embracing their respective roles.”

Marc Pingris led the still winless Hotshots with 19 points, eight rebounds, and two assists, while Aldrech Ramos got 18 markers and four boards.

The scores:

GLOBALPORT 91 – Pringle 24, Romeo 18, Canaleta 12, Mamaril 8, Pennisi 8, Quinahan 6, Aban 6, Cortez 4, Pessumal 3, Semerad 2, Maierhofer 0, Dehesa 0.
STAR 84 – Pingris 19, Ramos 18, Jalalon 13, Lee 9, Simon 8, Barroca 6, Brondial 3, Melton 3, Reavis 3, Maliksi 2, Sangalang 0.

Quarters: 29-8, 47-32, 67-58, 91-84.

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