DOJ smothers MMDA, gains UNTV quarters

MANILA, Philippines - Department of Justice trounced Metro Manila Development Authority, 86-75, to advance to the quarterfinal round in the third UNTV Cup at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City over the weekend.

Former collegiate standout Ian Garrido came through with a double-double of 18 points and 16 boards while Rico Escalante chipped in 18 markers and snared four rebounds as the DOJ Boosters finally made it past the elims after two tries.

But they will have to step up their game in the next round as they face the Kenneth Duremdes-mentored Senate Defenders, who enjoy a twice-to-beat edge.

Meantime, defending champion Armed Forces of the Philippines outplayed Philippine National Police, 68-63, to claim the last twice-to-beat bonus in the quarters.

Sergeant Alvin Zuniga starred for the Cavaliers in the tournament put up by multi-awarded broadcaster Daniel Razon, scoring eight of his 13 points in the fourth period.

Both AFP and PNP finished with similar 5-3 records but the Cavaliers took the No. 4 spot by virtue of the winner-over-the-other rule. They will again face each other in the quarters.

The winners in the quarterfinal round will join top seed Malacañang and No. 2 Judiciary in the semis.