Big Chill demolishes Cebuana to force D-League semis decider

PBA D-League/Nuki Sabio

Alex Mallari scored 20 points, and the Big Chill Superchargers forced a deciding third game in dominant fashion against Cebuana Lhuillier in their semifinal series in the PBA D-League Foundation Cup Tuesday at the San Juan Gym.

Mallari, who was ejected in the third quarter of the first game, led the charge that saw Big Chill ran away to a 111-70 victory to tie the series at 1-all.

“They were the better team in Game One, but today we were so motivated,” said Big Chill coach Robert Sison on the victory.

“Our backs were against the wall but the guys really played so well under pressure. It all boils down to execution. I’m so pleased with they way they responded.”

The winner-take-all third game will be played Thursday at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.

Mallari led four other players in double figures, including Elliot Tan (14 points), Mac Montilla and Keith Jensen (13), and Mar Villahermosa (11).

The Superchargers played tough pressing defense, limiting the contributions of Cebuana main man Vic Manuel, who scored just 10 points.

Jensen was a picture of energy for Big Chill, grabbing 11 rebounds as the Superchargers dominated the rebounding battle, 53-39.

The scores:

Big Chill 111 – Mallari 20, Tan 14, Montilla 13, Jensen 13, Villahermosa 11, Collado 9, Reyes 9, Viernes 8, Ponferada 7, Cortes 5, Glorioso 2.

Cebuana Lhuillier 70 – Alvarez 11, Manuel 10, Mangahas 9, Alas 8, Lozada 8, Eximiniano 7, Apinan 7, Hayes 4, Austria 3, Miranda 2, Taha 1, Llagas 0.

Quarters: 31-16; 54-31; 84-55; 111-70

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