New Chang Ming’s Yugi Cruz fends off a defender during a playoff game of the Michelob Ultra Cup 2023 Saturday at the Ada gym.
Martech Ol’Aces’ Airson Atan gets fouled as he goes up for the shot during a playoff game of the Michelob Ultra Cup 2023 Saturday at the Ada gym.
THE Martech Ol’Aces have advanced to the finals of the Michelob Ultra Cup 2023 after a stunning victory over New Chang Ming, 97-92, Saturday at the Ada gym.
It was a tough battle as both teams played as equals throughout the game.
Bu the Ol’Aces’ teamwork and ability to create shot opportunities kept them ahead. Douglas Schmidt orchestrated the onslaught with great pocket passes while leading the scoreboard with long range and strong finishes at the rim for a total of 10 points. Team mate Aiferson Atan, for his part, delivered two three-pointers of his own for a 26-21 lead.
Although New Chang Ming nearly trailed by double digits in the transition to the second canto, they went against all odds with a great display of ball sharing within the paint as Daryl Foronda found his midrange shot scoring eight points to cut down the deficit to just one point. However, the Ol’Aces quickly doused the flames starting with Schmidt’s third triple of the day followed by another by Airson Atan to regain a comfortable distance, 51-46.
No matter what New Chang Ming threw at them, the Ol’Aces always had an answer on the other end.
Rodel Pastrana heated up in the third period with seven points while Alvin Aimario and Foronda picked up where they left off in the final quarter. The Ol’Aces had Schmidt and Airson Atan carrying the third while Riley Brungard joined the offensive in the fourth during which Airson Atan connected five consecutive free throws to secure the win, 97-92.
Team Marianas vs Save More
In the second game of the day, Team Marianas eliminated Save More, 93-80.
It was in the second half when Team Marianas established dominance thanks to Coby Santos, Ervin Villarin, and Jack Aranda’s ability to finish, pushing a double digit spread, 69-54.
Despite Jet Jandoc’s efforts in the final quarter, Save More could not muster enough strength to pull a comeback, allowing Team Marianas to move one step closer to a shot at the title.
