PBL: Hapee forces Toyota off the road

MANILA, Philippines – Hapee rolled on to its second win in three games in the Philippine Basketball League (PBL) PG Flex Linoleum Cup, deflating Toyota Otis, 76-67, at the Ynares Sports Arena Tuesday. It’s the same story for the Sparks once more, keeping the game close for 30 minutes then collapsing in the final period. The Complete Protectors put the game away with a 10-4 run in the fourth quarter to enjoy a 72-65 spread with 1:44 left in the clock. “I think we are doing well at this point. We are finding our groove," said Hapee coach Gee Abanilla. “A lot of guys are finding their confidence." Roel Hugnatan put up 16 points and seven rebounds while Jervy Cruz was at his usual self with a double-double effort scoring 11 and grabbing 15 boards while dishing out three assists. “Iyong depensa namin at running game nagpapanalo sa amin. Nahirapan din ako dahil pisikal ang laro (Our defense and running game helped us win. The physical game was also challenging)," said Cruz after the game. West Negros University standout Ely Olarte backed up Cruz going perfect, 3-of-3, from the outside for 11 points. James Sena led Toyota with 13 points and six boards while Erick Rodriguez compiled another double-double with 12 and 16. RJ Jazul dropped 11 points as the spark-less Toyota shot a miserable 1-of-20 from the three-point area. – GMANews.TV