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The Terrafirma Dyip. PBA Images
MANILA — The Terrafirma Dyip have emerged as an unlikely leader in the PBA Season 50 Commissioner's Cup.
The Dyip drove past Blackwater, 99-88, to clinch a perfect 3-0 win-loss card, sustaining their strong start in the import-laced tournament.
"It starts in practice... Kung ano pinapakita nila sa game, 'yun ang nauumpisahan sa practice," said coach Ronald Tubid during the postgame press conference, reflecting on their third straight win.
READ: PBA: Mubashar Ali torches Converge as Terrafirma secures OT win
Although the Bossing did not taste the lead in the 48-minute basketball affair, they threatened during the second frame, ending the half closely at 50-49. Thankfully for Tubid, his wards regained their groove in the succeeding frame, outscoring the rivals 25-17, and held unto that cushion until the last period.
"Sobrang ganda ng start, pero they intended to go 1-on-1 nung second quarter. I think we were up 20, so 'yun 'yung problem pagka young team — sometimes, nalilihis. We see to it na bumalik do'n sa dating direction, which is to run the system," he added.
READ: PBA: Terrafirma first to enter Comm's Cup win column, overwhelms Titan Ultra in opener
Mubashar Ali, who was coming from a 50-25 performance last time around against Converge, garnered 22 points and 23 rebounds to lead the team. Paolo Hernandez, who was named Player of the Game, complemented those efforts with 20 markers and five boards.
Jerrick Ahanmisi remained consistent by supplementing 18 points, while Joseph Eriobu had a 12-7 statline, and Maverick Ahanmisi added 10 for the winning cause.
On the other hand, Sedrick Barefield shone with 25 points to pace the Bossing, who now lost two matches in a row.
The Scores:
TERRAFIRMA 99 – Ali 22, Hernandez 20, J.Ahanmisi 18, Eriobu 12, M.Ahanmisi 10, Bravo 7, Chiu 7, Zaldivar 3, Umali 0
BLAKCWATER 88 – Barefield 25, Ochefu 11, Andrade 10, Ilagan 9, Mendoza 8, Tratter 7, Una 6, David 5, Panopio 4, Escoto 3, Guinto 0, Mallilin 0, Jopia 0, Murrell 0
QUARTERS: 33-15, 50-49, 75-66, 99-88