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| The Alaska Aces passed the test in Game 5 of their semifinal duel with Meralco. (image from the PBA/inquirer) |
Game Capsules (adapted from Interaksyon):
ALASKA ACES over RAIN OR SHINE ELASTO-PAINTERS, 76-70
Box Scores.
The Alaska Aces continued to assert their place among the league’s best as they advanced to the finals for the third straight time – and the fourth in five conferences – after a 76-70 triumph over the Meralco Bolts in a do-or-die Game 5 in the Oppo PBA Commissioner’s Cup playoffs on Wednesday at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum.
Calvin Abueva led the way with 19 points and eight rebounds, while Chris Banchero also played a key role, finishing with 18 points, three rebounds, and four assists off the bench.
Import Rob Dozier had a double-double with 14 points and 18 rebounds as well in the win.
Alaska, which has finished runner-up to the powerhouse San Miguel Beermen three times in the last two seasons, will be looking to finally break through as it faces a new opponent in the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters in the best-of-seven title series.
RJ Jazul also had nine markers and Sonny Thoss chipped in with eight for the Aces.
The Bolts were paced by Jared Dillinger’s 18 points, while Baser Amer added a dozen markers off the pine. Best Import favorite Arinze Onuaku had 15 points and 18 boards in the loss.
Meralco was denied of the chance to advance to the finals for the first time in the history of the franchise.
Lines of the Game:
Rob Dozier (ALA) - 14pts, 18rebs, 2stls, 1ast, 6/13 FGs
Arinze Onuaku (MER) - 15pts, 18rebs, 4asts, 2stls, 6/12 FGs
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