Laguna clips QC to score 1st win in MPBL

By Ivan Saldajeno

PASIG—Laguna escaped a Quezon City comeback attempt and prevailed, 102-94, in their MPBL encounter on Friday night at the Ynares Sports Arena here.

Up by 11, 96-85, with 2:20 remaining, the Heroes found themselves in danger of blowing the comfortable lead when the Capitals cut the lead down to five, 98-93, with 21 seconds remaining.

Paolo Pontejos iced the game for Laguna as he nailed four straight free throws in the end.

Pontejos led the Heroes, who tied their victims at 1-1, with 24 points, one rebound, two assists, and one steal, while Niño Ibañez added 20 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists.

Kenneth Tener made 25 points on 10-for-14 field goals, 10 rebounds, three assists, three steals, and one block, while Joseph Brutas added 24 points, five rebounds, and three assists for the Capitals.

Follow him on Twitter: @IvanSaldajeno