By Ivan Saldajeno
PASIG--Hapee banked on a huge fourth quarter to oust Jumbo Plastic, 75-64, in the knockout quarterfinal game of the PBA D-League Foundation Cup at the Ynares Sports Arena on Thursday.
The fourth-seeded Fresh Fighters, who lost their twice-to-beat advantage after bowing to the Giants on Monday, will set a date with the Cebuana Lhuillier Gems in the semifinals beginning next Monday.
Hapee immediately raced to a double-digit lead, 31-21, midway into the second quarter, but Jumbo Plastic retaliated and came to within four, 35-39, in the early stages of the third period.
The Fresh Fighters threatened to pull away anew as they mounted a 13-point cushion, 48-35, with 3:59 left in the said period after going on a 9-0 run.
The Giants, however, knocked at their doors again as they drew to within six, 50-56, as the fourth quarter began.
Hapee then ignited a 12-3 run for its biggest lead at 15, 68-53, with 4:55 left and held on despite a late charge by Jumbo Plastic that came short.
Arth Dela Cruz nearly had a double-double as he tallied 18 points and nine rebounds along with four steals, while Baser Amer added 17 markers and three assists for the Fresh Fighters.
Paul Sanga led Jumbo Plastic with 13 points and five rebounds.
Box Scores:
Hapee 75–Dela Cruz 18, Amer 17, Rosario 13, Newsome 12, Adeogun 6, Thompson 4, Elorde 2, Sorela 0, Koga 0
Jumbo Plastic 64–Sanga 13, Arellano 10, Jalalon 10, Khobuntin 6, Mandani 6, Villamore 5, Eguilos 4, Mirza 4, Paniamogan 2, Perez 2, Avillanoza 2, Tiongson 0
Quarterscores: 22-15, 35-30, 52-44, 75-64
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