Ahanmisi hits 25 as Alaska escapes NLEX in OT

Alaska finished the elimination round on a strong note after escaping NLEX in overtime, 122-119, at the PBA Philippine Cup on Monday.

The Aces held a slim 53-49 lead in the first half, but the Road Warriors forced a 75-75 deadlock heading into the fourth quarter.

Both teams refused to budge in the payoff period and scored 33 points each, extending the game by five minutes.

The back and forth went on until the score was tied 113-113 with 2:44 remaining, but a five-point swing by Alaska seized the momentum for good.

Maverick Ahanmisi led the Aces with 25 points, 12 rebounds, and four assists, while JVee Casio added 19 markers.

Kiefer Ravena dropped 30 points for the Road Warriors, while JR Quiñahan hit 24.

The victory gave Alaska a 7-4 card ahead of the playoffs, though its exact placing will depend on the outcome of the remaining games.

NLEX, meanwhile, dropped to 4-6 with one game left against Terrafirma. Its fate depends on whether Rain or Shine takes care of business in its last two matches.

Box score:

Alaska — Ahanmisi 25, Casio 19, Tratter 16, Herndon 14, Teng 13, Digregorio 11, Manuel 11, Brondial 8, Ayaay 5, Eboña 0.

NLEX — Ravena 30, Quiñahan 24, Cruz 18, Alas 13, Miranda 9, Soyud 9, Semerad 8, Ighalo 5, Varilla 3, Ayonayon 0, Porter 0.

—MGP, GMA News