By Ivan Saldajeno
MANILA--Alaska's late playoff push is now on full throttle.
The Aces used a solid fourth quarter to depose the GlobalPort Batang Pier, 101-88, in a crucial PBA Governors' Cup match for both teams at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay on Friday night.
Alaska went to a good start, opening a 26-18 lead at the end of the first quarter.
GlobalPort, however, slowly crawled back and forced a 67-all tie after the third period.
The Aces then dropped 34 points in the final frame to finally hold off the Batang Pier.
Buck Henton led Alaska, which has now won two straight games after a 0-6 start--and a 14-game skid dating back to the Commissioner's Cup--with 36 points, 21 rebounds, four assists, two steals, and one block.
Calvin Abueva came off the bench and added 12 markers, five caroms, one assist, and one steal.
Murphey Holloway led GlobalPort, which fell to 3-5, with 25 points, nine boards, one dime, three blocks, and three steals.
Mac-Mac Cardona played well in his first start for GlobalPort, making 12 points on 5-of-6 shooting with two rebounds and two assists.
Terrence Romeo, however, struggled, only making five points on 2-of-9 shooting while committing five turnovers as well, although he also had four assists and one steal.
Box Scores:
Alaska 101-Henton 36, Abueva 12, Casio 11, Thoss 10, Baclao 8, Racal 7, Encisio 7, Exciminiano 6, Banchero 2, Pascual 2, Mendoza 0, Cruz 0
GlobalPort 88-Holloway 25, Anthony 19, Cardona 12, Guinto 10, Cortez 9, Romeo 5, Arana 4, Grey 2, Baracael 2, Celiz 0, Paredes 0.
Quarterscores: 26-18, 46-45, 67-67, 101-88
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