ABL: Johnson's offensive outburst lifts Patriots past Slingers

Anthony Johnson's late offensive outburst in the final quarter helped the Philippine Patriots complete a 90-84 comeback win over the Singapore Slingers Saturday in their final home game in the 3rd ASEAN Basketball League (ABL) at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City. Johnson finished with 26 points as he led Patriots in erasing Singapore's 13-point fourth-quarter lead as the hosts improved to 15-5 for second place. The Philippines will visit the Bangkok Cobras on May 13 for its last elimination round assignment. Patriots coach Glenn Capacio said he had a hard time motivating his players since they have already clinched a semifinals spot. "We were struggling in the first three quarters but I'm happy that the players responded to my call," said Capacio. Nakiea Miller added 20 points and 11 rebounds for the Patriots, who also got solid contributions from the locals in Ardy Larong, Aldrech Ramos, Marcy Arellano and Angel Raymundo as they combined for 27 points. Johnson scored seven in a 9-0 run to spark the Patriots' comeback for a 64-62 lead. Singapore import Louis Graham ended the Slingers' scoring drought with two quick baskets but Johnson completed a three-point play from the other end to give the Patriots a 67-66 edge. Don Dulay drained a three-pointer for Singapore, 69-67, but the Philippines countered with a 14-0 blast for an 81-69 count. Singapore managed to trim the Patriots' lead to three, 87-84, with 35.5 seconds left in the game but the Slingers failed to score after that. — JVP, GMA News