Fuentes leads CEU past AMA

Centro Escolar University halted a two-game slide at the expense of skidding AMA Online Education, 96-85, yesterday in the 2018 PBA D-League Foundation Cup at the Ynares Sports Arena Arena in Pasig City.

Gunner Judel Fuentes, back in the fold after a recent illness, led all scorers with 25 points, 15 of them coming in the second period to help the Scorpions pull away from the Titans and improve to an even 2-2 slate.

“We’re still not happy with the way we played defense,” said CEU interim coach Derrick Pumaren. “We got to play consistent basketball, especially on the defensive end. Their attitude should change because when we are up, they are starting to relax.”

Big man Andre Paras proved solid on his return with 21 points and 10 rebounds while Fil-Canadian Owen Graham tallied 16 points and 11 rebounds but they still could not prevent the Titans from absorbing their fourth straight match.

Meanwhile, Marinerong Pilipino dealt Batangas a sound 106-64 beating in the other game.

Rob Manalang waxed hot with 20 points, spiked by four triples, while fellow Fil-Am guard Trevis Jackson added 19 points, four rebounds and four assists as the Skippers buckled down to work early.

Not only did the lopsided victory enable Marinerong Pilipino to bounce back from an 88-71 loss to Aspirants Cup bridesmaid Che’Lu Bar and Grill last week and improve its mark to 2-1, it also primed the Skippers up for a riveting encounter with the pacesetting Go for Gold Scratchers on Thursday.