SMB routs Thailand to seize ABL lead

CEBU, Philippines - The San Miguel Beermen routed the Chang Thailand Slammers, 103-76, to overtake the AirAsia Patriots for the Asean Basketball League (ABL) leadership following the game yesterday at the Thai Japanese Association Gym in Bangkok, Thailand.

The Beermen already won their fourth straight game and 14-4 record ahead of the Air Asia Patriots (13-4) with the semifinal berth in the bag.

Former Petron import Nick Fazekas led the Beermen with 22 points and seven boards while Duke Crews had 14 and five boards for the team, who were sailing the rest of the way after a 26-all tie in the first quarter.

Fil-American guard Chris Banchero had 15 points, seven assists and two steals, Leo Avenido had 15 points while shooter Benedict Fernandez tallied 10 points and four steals.

The Slammers, who absorbed their 13th loss in 18 games and are virtually out of the playoffs, were led by Calvin Williams’ 20 points.

The Beermen’s next assigment will be against the Singapore Slingers (April 25), Bangkok Cobras (April 28) and Saigon Heat (May 9). (PR)(FREEMAN)