Akari-Adamson downs JRU

Akari-Adamson flexed enough muscles to beat also-ran Jose Rizal University, 71-64, Thursday night and claim the remaining outright semifinals berth in the PBA D-League Aspirants Cup at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.

Sean Manganti led the way with 15 points while Cameroon center Papi Sarr tallied 13 points and 10 rebounds as the Falcons got off to a flying start and held off the Heavy Bombers’ late assault in the second half.

With its fifth consecutive win and ninth overall in 11 matches, Akari-Adamson joined idle Marinerong Pilipino as early entries in the Final Four.

Earlier, Gamboa Coffee Mix-St. Clare primed itself up for the playoff round by taking AMA Online Education to school, 136-90.

Skipper Chris Bitoon shot the lights out with 31 points on 12-of-18 shooting from the field, making all of his six attempts from beyond the arc.