It was the heroics of Bryan Tolentino including perfect conversion at the free throw line in the dying seconds that saved the day for Bataan Dukhan, who escaped with a cliffhanger victory over Manila Red Apple, 72-68, to seal their ticket for the championship rounds of the Ooredoo Ambassador 2016 on Friday.
Tolentino pulled off a jumper to equalise the game 64-64, with 2:02 left and another basket to take a 2-point lead with 1: 18 left but Manila Red Apple’s Charlie Herradura bounced back by completing two charity shots from a quick foul by Rodel Mallari.
The former NU Bulldog, Ballers Bataan Dukhan triggerman however continued to be unstoppable after he converted another jumper and perfect conversion from the free throw line he executed in just mere 20 seconds differential to seal a comfortable four-point lead ,70-66.
Manila’s Sandie Limin and Kemuel Proceso tried to inch closer with just a 2-point deficit as they separately contributed on split charities but Bataan’s Rey Solomon answered back with another perfect conversion from the free throw line before the final buzzer sounded.
Herradura tried a Hail Mary with a second left from the rainbow territory but two defenders glided with him and he missed his three-point target.
Bataan will now face prolific MVP Ronnie Cajayon-lead Inihaw Republic Batangas in the championship match, which will be held at the Al Gharafa Training Gym on Friday.
The Ooredoo 20th Season Ambassador’s Cup of Pinoy Basketball of Qatar (PIBAQ) is presented by Alicafe. The tournament is brought to you by Qatar Basketball Federation and the Philippine Embassy in Qatar and co-Sponsored by Diana Jewellery and Watches, Power Horse Energy Drink, Control-P Seventh Spectrum and Shuttersbug Photography.
Bataan Dukhan’s Rodel Mallari seems to be unfazed by four defenders swarming over him. Picture: Ronnie Castro
