Cignal-Ateneo blasts Go For Gold-CSB in D-League debut

Isaac Go shone in the Blue Eagles' first hurrah in the PBA D-League. PBA Media Group
By Dugout Philippines

PASIG—Cignal-Ateneo announced its entry to the 2019 PBA D-League with a rousing 103-75 victory over Go for Gold-CSB Thursday at Ynares Sports Arena.

Isaac Go got the ball rolling for the Blue Eagles as they went on a 24-3 tear in the second quarter that turned a slim 20-16 lead to a commanding 44-17 advantage, capped off by an Ange Kouame layup.

The versatile forward top-scored for the early favorites with 21 points on a sizzling 4-of-6 shooting from threes, to go with his four rebounds as Cignal-Ateneo gained an early headstart in the Aspirants Group.

Adrian Wong also had his way from downtown, drilling five long bombs to notch 17 points, five rebounds, and four assists, as Matt Nieto contributed 14 points, seven assists, and three rebounds in the win.

It was a sweet-shooting outing for the Blue Eagles as they went on a 55-percent field goal shooting and 45-percent clip from threes, much to the delight of coach Tab Baldwin.

"This isn't how we play in the UAAP. We'll press a lot more, we'll do a lot of other things that we really can't do when our numbers are down. So offensively, I was surprised, we played pretty well," he said.

"We're not doing a lot really, but the guys played very efficiently and that's a good thing."

Ivorian slotman Kouame did his damage inside on his way to 13 points, 18 rebounds, four blocks, and two steals, including a big rim-rattler to finish the game in the final 81 seconds.

Thirdy Ravena still tried to make the game, but ultimately missed the affair due to academic obligations.

Justin Gutang led Foundation Cup champion Go for Gold-CSB with 21 points and three rebounds in the losing effort.

Yankie Haruna provided support with his 11 points and three boards for the Scratchers.

The Scores:

CIGNAL-ATENEO 103 -- Go 21, Wong 17, Ma. Nieto 14, Kouame 13, Mi. Nieto 9, Navarro 9, Belangel 9, Daves 6, Credo 5.

GO FOR GOLD-CSB 75 -- Gutang 21, Haruna 11, Belgica 9, Pasturan 8, Naboa 7, Young 6, Dixon 6, Carlos 5, Leutcheu 2, Nayve 0.

Quarters: 20-14, 49-26, 80-55, 103-75.

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