Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — Alaska Aces simply did what they do best on their way to a one-sided 109-84 win over GlobalPort Batang Pier in Game 4 of their Smart Bro-PBA Philippine Cup semifinals on Sunday (January 10).
From start to finish, Alaska’s signature defense was on full display and it helped the rugged squad keep GlobalPort at arm’s length the entire way at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum.
Powered by Calvin Abueva’s 20 points, the Aces picked up their third win in the best-of-seven series, and another on Tuesday will book them a return trip to the finals of the opening conference.
“Nag-focus talaga kami sa mga shooters nila,” said Abueva, who also collared 13 rebounds.
Dondon Hontiveros shot 13 of his total output 16 points in the first half as the Aces took a 54-40 buffer heading into the break.
The Batang Pier tried to turn things around, pulling within 10, 71-61, in the third period.
But the Aces stepped on the gas anew and didn’t let up from there, as Hontiveros, Abueva, Vic Manuel, and Chris Banchero conspired to give Alaska a comfortable 82-62 cushion entering the final frame.
Despite Alaska’s pesky defense, Terrence Romeo still scattered 21 points while Stanley Pringle added 16.
Game 5 is on Tuesday at the same venue.
