Shark thumps Ana; Kutitap sparkles

Defending champion Shark Energy Drink ended a string of crucial playoff losses by scuttling a stubborn Ana Freezers, 80-69, yesterday to barge into the semifinals of the PBL Challenge Cup at the Makati Coliseum.

Ervin Sotto led the charge with 23 points but it was Chester Tolomia’s clutch shooting in the final quarter that saved the day for the Power Boosters, who needed to win two in a row versus the ICTSI-La Salle Archers in the semis to advance to the finals.

Meanwhile, Kutitap Toothpaste extended its amazing run to five as it walloped Blu Detergents, 81-61, to barge into the semis versus multi-titled Welcoat Paints. — Joey Villar