Gems finish off Slashers in overtime

DAVAO CITY– The Cebuana Lhuillier Gems had to go through overtime before subduing the RCPI Negros Slashers, 97-91, last night at the Rizal Memorial Colleges Gym here.

The Gems could have won outright but Stephen Padilla missed his jumper with five seconds left, ending regulation play at 80-80. Dino Aldeguer had earlier tied the count with a jumper.

Raring to recover from the 76-65 loss handed them by the Professional Davao Eagles Sunday night, the Gems forced the Slashers to 11 turnovers that produced three Blitz 3s and gave them a 27-16 first quarter lead.

Settling down, the Slashers close the gap at 50-46 by halftime and then knotted the count at 65 by the end of the third quarter.

Pampanga, playing for the first time at the newly refurbished Bren Z. Guiao Convention Center, stunned Gilbey’s Olongapo, 105-91, Monday night, in San Fernando City.

Prized find Vincent John Santos, aided by recruits Paeng Santos and Roland Pascual and veterans Billy BAnsil and Dave Bautista powered the Stars to a 1-1 card.