Star leaned on a balanced scoring attack and its game-long defensive energy to sink Mahindra, 97-83 and earn a share of the leadership with idle Alaska in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup on Wednesday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
TAR HOTSHOTS vs MAHINDRA FLOODBUSTER
EVENTS: 2017 PBA COMMISSIONERS CUP
Tony Mitchell tallied 19 points, 14 boards, and six blocks, highlighting his performance with a windmill dunk early in the third quarter to lead a balanced attack in the Hotshots' fourth win in as many games that enabled them to claim a piece of the lead with Alaska.
Aldrech Ramos added 12 points, half from the three-point area, including one that came in the waning seconds of the third quarter that gave the Hotshots a commanding 17-point lead and sparked the one-sided final frame.
Jajalon’s backcourt mates Mark Barroca Paul Lee, and PJ Simon, chipped in 11 points apiece, while Maliksi added nine markers, including a three-pointer that gave them their biggest lead at 21 halfway through the third period.
Alex Mallari bounced back after being criticized for his lack of maturity last game as he registered a game-high 24 points on 11-of-18 shooting, six boards, two steals, and one assist that went for naught.