San Juan claims MPBL North finals berth after ousting Pampanga

The Knights now have all the reasons to celebrate as they make a return to the Final Four. MPBL
By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA—San Juan earned the first seat in the MPBL Northern Division Finals after eliminating Pampanga, 91-83, in Game 2 of their divisional semifinal series at the San Andres Sports Complex here on Wednesday night.

The Knights turned the tides in the third quarter, holding the Giant Lanterns to just 14 points before keeping them at bay in the end.

John Wilson, who exploded for 26 points in the series clincher, credited San Juan's victory to its experience in this kind of games.

"Yung experience namin last year, dala dala namin yung experience na yun dito lalo yung composure namin heading into the end game," said Wilson, who also had five rebounds, six assists, and five steals.

Jhonard Clarito added 14 points, 14 rebounds, four steals, and one block off the bench for the Knights, who will face either the Manila Stars or the Makati Skyscrapers in the Final Four. Manila, holding a 1-0 lead in their own North semis affair, is hosting Makati as of posting.

Dexter Maiquez made 18 points, 11 rebounds, two assists, and one steal for Pampanga.

The Scores:

San Juan-Go for Gold (91) -- Wilson 26, Clarito 14, Ayonayon 13, Isit 13, Estrella 8, Tajonera 5, Gabawan 4, Wamar 3, Aquino 3, Buñag 2, Rodriquez 0, Reyes 0

Pampanga-ADG Group (83) -- Maiquez 18, Hernandez 17, Cervantes 14, Muyang 10, Apreku 7, Cruz 6, Thompson 4, Alberto 4, Gomez 2, Fabian 1, Concepcion 0, Juico 0

Quarterscores: 26-25, 48-50, 69-64, 91-83

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