Espinosa keys Team Azul rally to rule Milcu tilt triumph

MANILA, Philippines — John Espinosa hit a jumper in the last five seconds as Team Azul rallied and edged La Salle Antipolo, 76-75, to snare the under-14 crown of the Milcu Sports Basketball Presented by Got Skills Hard To Guard Showcase at the Philippine Buddhacare Academy recently.

Espinosa’s game-winner capped a sterling double-double effort of 21 points and 13 rebounds while adding eight assists and three shots blocks.

John Pile added 15 points and nine rebounds, while Gian Hombre added 14 markers to help Team Azul snatch the crown in the Got Skills-organized tournament sponsored by Milcu and sanctioned by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas and backed by Basketball TV, Clyde Shoe Cleaner, Gerry’s Grill, Coach Athletics Tape, LGR, FMR, Gatorade, and Rain or Shine.

La Salle Antipolo took a 75-70 lead in the stretch before Pile and Espinosa took over for Team Azul at endgame. Pile scored a lay-up before Espinosa converted back-to-back baskets to grab the lead.