MANILA – AMA Online Education Titans started its 2019 PBA D-League Aspirant’s Cup campaign in style after an 80-65 victory over McDavid at the Paco Arena in Manila.
Franky Johnson debuted with 24 points, seven rebounds, and two steals, Troy Rike added 15 points and eight rebounds, while Joshua Munzon registered double-double 12 points and 10 rebounds for the Titans.
Bacolodnon Kib Montalbo also chipped in six points and five assists for the Titans, which grabbed a share of the lead together with opening week winners Cignal-Ateneo Blue Eagles, University of Santo Tomas Tigers and Cha Dao-FEU Tamaraws.
“Buti nag-jell kami ng maaga. At least, nagsamasama sila,” said Titans head coach Mark Herrera, who hopes to steer the team deep into playoffs round this conference with its solid lineup.
Johnson’s early spurt allowed the Titans to take a 10-0 lead as they went on cruise control in the wire-to-wire victory, annexing the lead to as much as 18, 71-53 early in the fourth period.
Jason Melano collected 15 points, nine rebounds, and three assists, while James Martinez chipped in 10 markers for the McDavid.
In the other match, Centro Escolar University Scorpions dealt UCBL rival Diliman College-Gerry’s Grill a ruthless 93-76 beating. Senegalese big man Maodo Malick Diouf had 15 points and 17 rebounds for the Scorpions.
“Actually, I’m surprised with the way we played today. I’m surprised with the energy and I’m happy with the way the boys were able to block out the NCRAA and come out with a lot of energy,” said Scorpions head coach Derrick Pumaren./PN
