MANILA – Marinerong Pilipino Skippers brandished its new roster look as it took down the Karate Kid-Centro Escolar University Scorpions, 93-57, in the 2020 Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) D-League Aspirants’ Cup at the San Juan Arena on March 2.
Juan Gomez de Liaño made his presence felt in the match after firing for 16 first half points to finish with 21. He also registered seven rebounds and four assists in the Skipper’s early breakaway.
Juan’s brother, Javi, was also impressive after he contributed 18 points, five rebounds and two blocks for the Marinerong Pilipino to notch its season-opening win sans Jamie Malonzo.
Jordan Rios chipped in 15 markers and grabbed five boards, while Dhon Reverente came alive in the second half – contributing all of his 13 points in the last two quarters. Negrense Jeff Manday scored eight points in his PBA D-League debut.
Juan’s early outburst ignited the Skippers’ to a 20-5 scoring run. The team even stretched the lead to its widest at 38, 71-33, in the third quarter.
Jerie Pingoy, on the other hand, bannered the Scorpions with 13 points, while John Apacible had 10 points and nine rebounds in the defeat.
In the other match of the tournament opener, EcoOil-La Salle Green Archers staved off a late rally from Wangs-Letran Knights, 102-90, to hand new head coach Frederick Pumaren a winning debut.
Encho Serrano led EcoOil-La Salle with 19 points, eight rebounds and three assists, as backcourt partner Aljun Melecio scored 15 points built on four triples, alongside eight assists and six boards./PN
