(File photo of PBA Images)
MANILA – San Miguel evaded what could have been the biggest upset so far in the PBA Philippine Cup after subduing Terrafirma by just one point in overtime, 109-108, on Thursday night at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.
June Mar Fajardo scored the game-winner for San Miguel as he did not just show his strength inside the paint but even his improved passing abilities that brought him just close to a triple-double.
Fajardo powered his way into the cup and converted a layup against Joseph Gabayni and Aldrech Ramos with 19.6 seconds remaining in the extra period.
Fajardo would make the bonus free throw off Ramos' sixth foul to cap a rare perfect clip from the charity stripe.
Javi Gomez De Liano had a chance to win it, but despite getting past CJ Perez, he could not convert the go-ahead layup at the final buzzer.
Fajardo finished with 26 points, 10 rebounds, and nine assists for the Beermen, who clinched the top seed in the quarterfinal round plus a twice-to-beat advantage.
Marcio Lassiter added 23 points, seven rebounds, and eight assists, while Perez got 20 points, five rebounds, one assist, four steals, and one block for the now 9-1 SMB side.
Eric Camson put up 20 markers, two boards, two dimes, and one steal for Terrafirma, which remained winless after nine games. (PNA)
