Despite World Resort’s excessive fouls, Banjo Basila scored two early-game three-pointers and Wowie Abuel shot three to outrun the stumbling Archers. Both tallied a combined 49 points and Dennis Vinas added 10 to secure their semis seat.
The Archers needed only one basket to even out the first half, but it was too late. Offensive pressure from Abuel and a growing number of turnovers led to their collapse. Saipan World Resort pulled away at 58-48 in the fourth quarter.
Jaime Wabinga scored two points from a jump shot before fouling out with Vinas.
Lions Club’s Rex Yabut followed suit with five personal fouls and 15 points. Posting two steals in the fourth quarter, Mike Cruz settled with only two points.
Vinas’ ejection left the rebounds up to Basila, who scored 11 of his 24 points in the second half.
The Archers controlled the court with a 16-13 during the first quarter but slipped on crucial baskets.
Prior to their victory, World Resort took the third seed in the league’s A-bracket, right below Blue Haus and Pacific Trading Company.
Team Lions Club ranked second in the B-bracket at six wins and one loss during regular season.
Team PTC was scheduled to play Soul Jazz in a second game, but results were unavailable during press time.
Scores:
Saipan World Resort 70 — W. Abuel 25, B. Basila 24, D. Vinas 10, N. Ramos 7, J. Wabinga 2, M. Felipe 2
Lions Club Archers 57 — R. Yabut 15, R. Usi 12, N. David 12, E. Mendoza 9, G. Miranda 4, J. Diyco 3, M. Cruz 2
Quarterscores: 16-13, 32-34, 48-58, 57-70
