MANILA, Philippines – A clutch layup by Eric Dawson and huge block on the other end by local JP Erram helped the Blackwater Elite escape with a 100-98 victory over the Star Hotshots on Friday, July 22, at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum.
The Hotshots rallied from a 97-93 deficit with 52 seconds thanks to a critical lay-up by Ian Sangalang and 3-pointer on the break by Allein Maliksi.
After Star went ahead by one, Dawson evaded Marc Pingris’ defense in the paint and converted a lefty lay-in with 9 seconds left. Following a time-out, Star again went to Maliksi, but his pull-up was blocked by Erram’s out-stretched hand.
Dawson was fouled and made one of two free throws with a second left, but the Hotshots - who had no remaining time-outs - lost after James Yap’s heave from beyond half-court misfired.
Erram led the Elite with 16 points and 6 rebounds, while Dawson scored 14 and grabbed 11 boards. Maliksi led Star with 20 points off the bench, while Sangalang scored 18 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. – Rappler.com