GlobalPort fends off Alaska for first W

Last game, GlobalPort's locals, save for Alex Cabagnot failed to contribute for the team, which ultimately led to their demise.

This time though, they went on a tear.

Despite dropping a 17-point lead on the final canto, the Batang Pier held on to beat the Aces 95-91, to win their first game in the PBA Home TVolution Governor's Cup.

Cabagnot and returning import LeRoy Hickerson once again led the parade for GlobalPort, but the help was there. Come-backing rookie Terrence Romeo exploded for 18 points, while Jay Washington added 13 for good measure.

After trailing by 14 after the half, Alaska slowly but surely chipped away at the lead. After the third canto, the score was 66-62, still in favor of the Batang Pier.

With two minutes left and GlobalPort's lead sitting at 11, all-around import Henry Walker shot the Aces back into the game with four consecutive points. A silence ensued, and GlobalPort seems to have won the game.

But Calvin Abueva had other ideas. With 20.9 seconds left, the Rookie of the Year put the Aces back in striking distance after a tip-in and a quick steal off Jondan Salvador. The lead is at 93-88.

Romeo split his free-throws on the ensuing possession. Walker then nailed a long three-pointer to put the Aces within 3.

Alaska opted to foul Washington with about 12 seconds left, but unexpectedly of the veteran out of Eckerd missed both foul shots, supposedly leaving Alaska a chance to send the game to overtime.

But Hickerson recovered the loose ball to set up Cabagnot for two more free throws. He answers by splitting his charities to seal the game. (GS)

The scores:

GLOBALPORT (95) -- Hickerson 25, Cabagnot 24, Romeo 18, Washington 13, Garcia 8, Ponferada 4, Macapagal 2, Matias 1, Taha 0, Menk 0, Hayes 0, Salvador 0.

ALASKA (91) -- Walker 22, Casio 16, Espinas 14, Abueva 14, Baguio 8, Jazul 6, Hontiveros 5, Manuel 4, Thoss 2.

Quarterscores: 24-22; 48-34; 66-62; 95-91.