Behind by five points, the IT&Es still had the chance to catch up in the second half. Things slowed down for Ivan De Vero however, when he was charged with traveling violations.
The Docomos played well in both the offense and defense, keeping the IT&Es behind. Docomo’s Elmer Esdrelon fired successive jumpers in the third quarter followed by a three-pointer. A screen from Edwin Santos helped Ron Gamboa score his first basket of the night.
With time running out, the IT&Es had no room for mistakes. Team captain Ehroll Peredo faced a combo of blocks from Santos and Estolas, landing only one of his three basket attempts.
The game heated up in the final minutes as De Vero penetrated the Docomos’ defense. Marlon De Dios assists with an offensive rebound, making his final shot. A layup from De Vero nearly tied the game when Santos jumped in, snatching the ball from him.
With 20 seconds left on the clock, JR Montano scored his first three-pointer for IT&E. They called two quick time-outs near the end, giving team Docomo the chance to recuperate.
Both Gamboa and Estolas rushed in with more layups but settled with free throws instead. Assisting them was Esdrelon, who capped the night off with 23 points.
Team Docomo will play the Ferrera Builders in tonight’s winner’s bracket, joined by another game between the IT&Es and Wings Travels.
Scores:
Docomo Pacific 72 – E. Esdrelon 23, J. Estolas 22, L. Sharry 11, E. Santos 7, R. Gamboa 3, J. Lee 2, M. Manalo 2, J. Tabora 2
IT&E 67 – E. Peredo 25, M. De Dios 13, I. De Vero 12, J. Tumaquip 11, J. Montano 3
Quarterscores: 17-11, 36-29, 53-48, 72-67
