Bombers hold off gritty Batangas 5

MANILA, Philippines - Jose Rizal University used a tough late game stand to hold off Batangas, 70-65, for its second victory in the 2017 PBA D-League Aspirants Cup yesterday at Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.

Ervin Grospe stepped up for the Heavy Bombers, scattering 20 points and hauling down three rebounds in the win.

But it was Tey Teodoro who helped JRU take control in the third quarter, firing seven of his 18 markers in the period as his side grabbed an 11-point edge, 53-42.

“Our defense today was a big improvement compared in our last game,” said coach Vergel Meneses.

Joseph Sedurifa kept Batangas afloat as he led a furious fightback in the fourth to close in, 61-58.

Sedurifa topped Batangas with 18 points and six rebounds, while CJ Isit added 12 markers in the defeat.

Meanwhile, Wangs Basketball blew a 21-point first half lead but recovered in time to hack out a 92-83 win over Victoria Sports-MLQU in the other game.

Von Tambeling fired 17 points, including 12 in the first half that saw the Couriers race to a 49-28 lead. But Robbie Herndon led Victoria Sports’ second half rally, pulling the team within, 67-72.

Marlon Gomez matched Tambeling 17-point out and completed a double-double with 13 rebounds while Rey Publico added 14 markers and six rebounds.

Herndon led Victoria Sports with 19 points and 10 rebounds, while John Ragasa had 16 markers.