Scorpions survive Altas, clinch playoff slot

MANILA, Philippines — Centro Escolar University squandered a 16-point fourth quarter lead but checked its skid in time to repulse University of Perpetual Help, 90-85, and secure the first playoff berth in the PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup at the JCSGO Gym in Cubao yesterday.

Orlan Wamar’s layup keyed a decisive 7-0 run in the final 46 seconds as the Scorpions battled back from an 83-85 deficit to nail their fourth straight win and seventh overall against one loss.

CEU thus stayed on top of the 12-team field while nailing a spot in the six-team playoffs.

“The guys just stayed focused although the Altas gave their best effort,” said CEU coach Yong Garcia.

In the other match, Trevis Jackson hit a technical free throw with 0.9 second left in overtime as Gamboa Coffee Mix-St. Clare nipped Zark’s Burgers-Lyceum, 107-106, for a 4-3 card.

The Jawbreakers bench was called for a “T” for excessive timeouts after Jaycee Marcelino sued for a break, sending Jackson to the line.

The Gamboa Coffee ace knocked in the bonus shot to shatter the 106-all and the Coffee Lovers snatched the win after Marcelino flubbed his jumper at the buzzer.

Zark’s Burgers-Lyceum took its third straight loss and fell to 4-4.

The Coffee Lovers overhauled an 88-93 deficit in the final 35.5 seconds in regulation with Jackson draining a trey with 9.5 seconds to force overtime.