|
TARLAC CITY: Hapee Toothpaste went full throttle in
the third quarter Friday to clobber Burger King, 82-70 in Game 1 of
their semis series in the 2008 PBL Lipovitan Amino Sports Cup before
a roaring crowd at the Tarlac State University here.
The Complete Protectors led only
37-32 at halftime but they picked enough steam in the next quarter,
outscoring the BK Whoppers, 27-10, to break the game wide apart and
gain a headstart in their best-of-5 semis.
Drawig fine performances from
almost everybody, Hapee led from start to finish with Fil-Am Gabe
Norwood, easily the most popular player, leading Hapee’s assault
with 18 points.
The Whoppers were thrown into
disarray early in the third quarter as the Complete Protectors came
up with a paralyzing zone press that silenced them for over five
minutes while exploding for 17 straight points for a 54-32 lead.
“We played solid defense in the
third and that was it,” said Hapee coach Louie Alas. “I’m
hoping we can sustain this good start.”
The Complete Protectors posted
their biggest lead at 58-35 following back-to-back baskets by
Norwood and Alfie Grijaldo. Borboran finished with 15 points.
Game 2 will be played on Monday
at the University of Cordilleras gym in Baguio City.
Around 4,000 fans, including the
original Mr. Basketball Caloy “The Big Difference” Loyzaga,
Mayor Genardo Mendoza of Tarlac City and Philippine Olympic
Committee (POC) spokesman Joey Romasanta, watched the game.
|
