STAR NAILS CRUCIAL WIN
Star fanned its waning quarterfinal hopes with a huge 105-93 victory over Talk ‘N Text Tuesday to stay alive in the 2015 PBA Governors’ Cup at Smart Araneta Coliseum.
At 4-5, the Hotshots leapfrogged the Tropang Texters to the eighth spot going into the final week of the eliminations.
Marqus Blakely spearheaded the Star with a double-double, tallying 26 points and 16 rebounds with Joe Devance adding 19 markers off the bench on a perfect 4-of-4 shooting from three-point territory.
Justin Melton also had 16 points, while Peter June Simon pounced on the Tropang Texters in the fourth, scoring six easy points to finish with 15.
“This team, whenever their backs are against the wall, whenever they need a crucial win, their focus is uncanny. They can really step up and focus,” said Star coach Tim Cone.
From a close 65-63 affair late in the third, Star fired an 8-2 tear to end the quarter and erect a 73-65 lead going to the fourth. The Hotshots continued the run, capped off by a booming Devance trey for a commanding 20-point cushion, 105-85, late in the game.
“Needless to say, this is a big win for us. We needed a bounce back game after falling flat against Rain or Shine. But we’re still kulelat and we have a tough road ahead of us,” said the Grand Slam-winning coach.
Star braces for skidding Barako Bull on Sunday before finishing its schedule against Blackwater two days later.
Ranidel de Ocampo’s 21 points and five rebounds were not enough as Talk ‘N Text lost five of its last six outings to fall to 4-6.
Larry Fonacier got 20 markers, while Steffphon Pettigrew had 18 points and 10 boards. (RL)
Subscribe to INQUIRER PLUS to get access to The Philippine Daily Inquirer & other 70+ titles, share up to 5 gadgets, listen to the news, download as early as 4am & share articles on social media. Call 896 6000.
