Alaska a win away from Govs Cup finals with rout of Star

By Ivan Saldajeno

QUEZON CITY--On Wednesday, Alaska fought back from 21 points down to open its PBA Governors' Cup semifinals series against Star with a win.

Two nights later, the Aces won by 21.

Alaska moved to within a victory from clinching the best-of-five series against Star with a 95-74 rout at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Friday.

Despite a slow first quarter, the Aces showed their wares against the Hotshots in the final three periods en route to the blowout.

Romeo Travis led Alaska, which can nail the first seat to the championship round on Sunday, with 19 points, 14 rebounds, four assists, and three steals.

Marqus Blakely tallied 19 markers, eight boards, three dimes, three steals, and two blocks for Star, which will now need to sweep the remaining three games to keep its title defense alive.

Box Scores:

Alaska 95-Travis 19, Abueva 11, Baclao 10, Exciminiano 10, Manuel 9, Banchero 9, Baguio 8, Hontiveros 8, Casio 7, Thoss 4, Dela Rosa 0, Jazul 0

Star 74-Blakely 19, Simon 17, Yap 10, Mallari 8, Pingris 7, Pennisi 5, Barroca 3, Melton 3, Devance 2, Maliksi 0

Quarterscores: 23-23, 47-41, 71-58, 95-74