Aces tame Barako, pick up 3rd straight win

MANILA, Philippines -- Defending champion Alaska Aces are starting  to heat up after collecting their straight win, a 78-71 victory over Barako Bull Wednesday night at SMART-Araneta Coliseum for their third straight victory in the PLDT Home TVolution Commissioner’s Cup.

Reigning Best Import Rob Dozier had 18 points and 15 rebounds while Gabby Espinas scored 12 of his 14 points in the second half as Alaska improved to 4-3.

“Good defensive job again,” Alaska coach Luigi Trillo said.

The Aces' defense limited Barako Bull's high-scoring import Joshua Dollard to just 26 points, nine less than his average and held the whole Barako squad to below 36 percent shooting.

Barako failed to build on the momentum of its huge upset of San Mig Coffee the last time as it fold up in the final minute to go down with a 2-3 card.

The Aces, however, are not yet safe as they wind up their elimination campaign against San Mig Coffee and Brgy. Ginebra.

“It doesn't get easier from here. We just have to keep on winning, that’s how important the games are,” Trillo added.

Barako Bull kept it close, the last at 70-67, on Dollard's two free throws.

Alaska steadied in the endgame with a Jvee Casio clutch jumper while forcing the Energy Cola to a crucial turnover.

The scores:

ALASKA 78 – Dozier 18, Espinas 14, Casio 10, Abueva 9, Hontiveros 8, Jazul 6, Thoss 6, Manuel 4, Baguio 3, Reyes 0, Dela Cruz 0.

BARAKO BULL 71 – Dollard 26, Pennisi 12, Miller 7, Isip 6, Miranda 6, Lastimosa 5, Fortuna 2, Buenafe 2, Pena 2, Wilson 1, Marcelo 0.

Quarters: 13-17, 26-30, 53-50, 78-71