The match officially capped the league’s regular season, with top-ranked IT&E-Konflikt drawing a bye on a 7-0 record.
The Aces, not out of the game yet, will end up facing FGC Construction in Thursday’s first playoff round after a 6 p.m. match between Northern Marianas College Proa and Andoks.
They thrived on a three-point lead before trailing Mobil, 33-36 in the first half on Monday.
Estolas drove Mobil’s offense on 22 points with Bart Demapan scoring 11. Angelo Fernando and center Larry Sharry scored 14 and eight, respectively.
Tony Diaz scored a triple to lift the Aces by the fourth quarter and tipped in a two-pointer just before the buzzer.
Estolas tallied 13 of Mobil’s last 21 points and also fired a three-pointer before landing his winning baskets with Fernando.
The game lifted Mobil to four wins. The Ol Aces, dropping to 3-4, settled for the sixth seed.
Freddie Pelisamen led the Aces’ final surge on 10 points, making half the team’s baskets in the fourth period. Diaz scored 22 and Mike Olaitiman piled seven.
Scores:
Mobil 78 – J. Estolas 22, A. Fernando 14, B. Demapan 11, L. Sharry 8, P. Lizama 7, J. Maratita 7, G. Ruluked 5, J. De Guzman 4
Ol Aces 73 – F. Pelisamen 25, T. Diaz 22, M. Olaitiman 7, C. Kenty 6, P. Camacho 6, Z. Diaz 4
Quarterscores: 21-18, 33-36, 52-57, 73-78
GBL to ‘spice up’ playoffs
Fans are ‘encouraged’ to join halftime activities during the league’s playoff games said organizer Rey Perez. The mini games will include a 3-point Shootout Challenge and Buzzer Beater Challenge.
“We will also introduce the ‘IT&E Best Player Fans Choice’ in our Facebook page as our way of thanking our community in supporting the league. Fans have a chance to vote for their choice of players in the following categories: Best in Sportsmanship and IT&E-Best Player.” said Perez in a press release.
In addition, the GBL will hold a 17-and-under Youth Tournament next year. Interested teams and coaches may contact GBL at [email protected].
