Despite Kae Bernardo’s buzzer-beater in the final quarter, the Ferrera Builders couldn’t help but fall to Sharry and Jun Estolas. They had no problems in the first half, jumping ahead by 20 points. Ferrera went full blast in the offense, sending Bernardo and Luis Abuel on the court.
The Docomos treaded lightly at the start, keeping their backcourt defense intact. Elmer Esdrelon had his eyes on Abuel, blocking him from his typical spot at the three-point line. Both he and Estolas climbed to a slow start with only two points apiece in the first quarter. Docomos’ center Edwin Santos kept the team alive, rejecting lay ups from Ferrera’s Ponce Rasa and James Abuy.
A couple turnovers by Estolas sparked the team back to action as he dashed his way past Bernardo and Jhun Abedes.
The Ferreras still had time to keep their momentum, with Jhun Abedes firing four three-pointers in the third quarter. Esdrelon saved his energy at the bench, giving Gamboa and Estolas ample time to catch up.
Five minutes seemed like forever for the Ferreras, whose lead started fading away in the fourth quarter. Santos and Sharry dominated Bernardo as the two piled 10 points in offensive rebounds.
Estolas took the spotlight near the end, making three more field goals. The Ferreras never saw what was coming as Esdrelon slowly closed the gap at 83-78.
Both teams came to a 100-100 tie in overtime following a free throw from Gil Miranda. Snatching the night’s final rebound, Sharry scored 21 points. Estolas was the game’s top scorer with 33 points.
QQ league recognizes top players
In addition to its championship series, the QQ league also gave its first set of awards last Wednesday.
Docomo Pacific’s Jun Estolas was awarded the regular season’s MVP and ‘Best in Assists.’ ‘Scoring Champion’ went to Team Buraot’s Dave Sablan and Pacific Grocers’ Elgin Mangali.
Earning ‘Best in Sportsmanship’ were team Westerners, while Angelo Fernando and Zack Babauta won the same award in the individual category. Peredo, Bernardo, Marlon De Dios, Esdrelon, and Estolas were recognized as the league’s Mythical Five.
Other recipients were: Wings Travel’s Bernard Aquino (Mr. Quality Minutes); Ferrera’s Andy Mortos (Sixth Man); Cellular Pro’s Eric Dulfo (Darling of the Crowd); Elmer Esdrelon (Best in Steals); Saimar Pilot’s Sonny Lerio (Best in 3-Point Shot); IT&E’s Ehroll Peredo (Best in Shot Block and Best in Rebounds).
Championship series continues
The QQ league’s championship series will continue tonight, following a battle for third place between teams Wings Travel and IT&E.
The tournament’s Finals MVP trophy, James Hann’s ‘Player of Choice’ award, and first Runner-up and championship trophies will be given out after the series.
Players may also sign up for next year’s season by contacting Marlon Sison at 989-6463 or Rey Perez at 989-8759.
Scores:
Docomo Pacific 102 – J. Estolas 33, L. Sharry 21, R. Gamboa 18, E. Santos 16, E. Esdrelon 14
Ferrera Builders 100 – P. Rasa 20, L. Abuel 20, J. Abuy 19, K. Bernardo 16, J. Abedes 13, N. David 7, G. Miranda 3
Quarterscores with overtime: 29-18, 48-30, 75-58, 89-89, 100-102
