By Dugout Philippines
Scottie Thompson once again showed brilliance for the Perpetual Help Altas as another MVP-like game from him helped them trounce the San Sebastian Golden Stags, 92-76, in their crucial NCAA match at the FilOil Flying V Arena in San Juan City.
In a game where the Stags actually led by as high as 14 early in the third quarter, Thompson ignited a 23-11 late third quarter Altas rally that cut the lead to two, 58-56.
San Sebastian looked to rebuild the lead in the fourth as it increased its lead to five, 63-58, with 9:06 left in the game.
But Thompson started another Perpetual Help run that gave the team the advantage, 68-67, with 6:59 remaining.
Jerick Fabian fired a three-pointer to give the Golden Stags the lead anew, 70-68.
But seven straight points from Thompson following the equalizing basket from Justine Alano helped build the game-deciding 24-6 Altas run that gave them their 12th win in their regular season finale.
The win also assured them of a playoff for the last Final Four slot while also giving them a shot at the twice-to-beat advantage pending the San Beda-Arellano game later in the day.
Thompson scored 29 points, grabbed nine rebounds, and dished eight assists, while Jong Baloria added 24 markers for Perpetual Help.
Fabian and Jovit Dela Cruz each had 18 to lead San Sebastian.
Box Scores:
Perpetual Help 92—Thompson 29, Baloria 24, Arboleda 16, Alano 12, Dagangon 8, Gallardo 3, Oliveria 0, Dizon 0, Lucente 0, Jolangcob 0
San Sebastian 76—Dela Cruz 18, Fabian 18, Guinto 14, Perez 12, Yong 6, Balucanag 4, Calisaan 2, Costelo 2, Camasura 0, Alvarez 0, Pretta 0, Ortuoste 0, Mercado 0
Quarterscores: 22-21, 31-40, 56-60, 92-76
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