MANILA, Philippines - Star Group fell short of its bid for a twice-to-beat edge in the semis as it dropped a 78-81 setback to Wang’s Ballclub in the MBL Invitational basketball championship at the Lyceum gym last Tuesday.
Lester Reyes fired 21 points, including a tough undergoal shot that tied the count at 76. But he failed to complete the three-point play that could have given Star Group a one-point lead with 31 seconds left.
Wang’s then leaned on former PBA player Biboy Simon and American missionary Joshua Manthe, who combined for five free throws in the last 28 seconds to snatch the victory for the defending champions.
Wang’s thus assured itself of at least a playoff for the second outright semis berth with a 5-2 slate.
Star Group actually had a chance to send the game into overtime but Dennis Rodriguez missed a three-point heave from way out.
The Starmen dropped to 4-3, needing to beat unbeaten Hobe Bihon (5-0) at resumption of action tonight to stay in the hunt in the tournament backed by Smart Communications, Dickies Underwear and PRC Courier Services.
Simon, who played for Air21 in the PBA, finished with 15 points, former Talk n Text mainstay Jonathan Aldave had 14 points while Manthe and Ryan Regalado added 12 points apiece.
Rodriguez added 20 points while Ver Roque struggled for nine points for Star.
Royale BC, meanwhile, drew firepower from Toto Bandaying, Leemore Boliver, Earl Saguindel and Floyd Dedicatoria as it stunned MLQU, 94-78, in the other game to tie Star Group in third place.