PNP books UNTV Final Four berth

MANILA, Philippines – Ollan Omiping and Harold Sta. Cruz took charge in the clutch as Philippine National Police dethroned Judiciary in overtime, 85-82, to nail a semifinal berth in the fourth UNTV Cup at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City over the weekend.

A two-time MVP, Omiping erupted for a season-high 35 points highlighted by four triples to lead PNP past Judiciary after trailing majority of the way en route to a return stint in the semis.

Sta. Cruz, who once played for the Philippine Patriots in the ASEAN Basketball League, chipped in 12 markers, including a tough drive that forced overtime.

The Responders, who came into the game with a twice-to-beat edge, will face Metro Manila Development Authority for a spot in the finals.

MMDA, however, has a twice-to-beat advantage over PNP in their series that will start on Feb. 12.

Also shining for Estong Ballesteros-mentored PNP were rookie Anto Tolentino and Rodel Ongutan, who also came through with clutch baskets. Ongutan shattered an 82-all count with a free throw before Tolentino, who earlier buried a triple, scored two free throws in the last 6.8 seconds to seal the win.