Thunder shock, blast, flatten Beermen

Red Bull operated efficiently from the long court beyond the wondrous shooting touch of Junthy Valenzuela then called on import Tony Lang to finish off San Miguel Beer, 92-86, last night and post a surprising two-games-to-nil lead in their best-of-seven series for the PBA Commissioner’s Cup crown before a big crowd at the Philsports Arena.

The amazing Thunder seemed to grow in character and championship form as they fed on the pressures of the title playoff to stun the multi-titled Beermen for the second straight time in victories that practically changed the complexion of the series.

The hardworking Valenzuela returned from a so-so stint in the first game and banged away three-pointers over a tough San Miguel defense, including back-to-back treys at the onset of the fourth period that gave Red Bull the momentum for good, 74-63.

But the Beermen refused to give up the cause and kept coming back behind Nic Belasco, Danny Ildefonso, Danny Seigle and import Nate Johnson to come within five points twice, the last at 75-80, 3:55 left in the contest.

But like in Game One, which Red Bull took, 80-78, the Thunder showed grace under pressure and lived through the breaks which came their way in the last 2:16 following a key-hole jumper by Ato Agustin, 82-75.

Then came Lang’s decisive three-pointer at the rear end of three offensive possessions by Red Bull as the former Duke star controlled the loose ball and came through with undergoal stab and a free throw, 85-76.

The Beermen, who controlled the early going of the contest and even took an 11-point lead, 42-31, made a last-ditch rally and cut the deficit to five, 82-87, behind two triples by Olsen Racela and Seigle, with time down to 40 seconds.

But the Thunder could not be denied the victory and rode on pressure-packed free throws to seal the pulsating victory.

Valenzuela fired a career-high 25 points, highlighted by seven triples and three rebounds and two assists.

The Thunder gun for a commanding 3-0 lead tomorrow.

"I’m sure they’ll be back for a fight. We have a 2-0 advantage and there is less pressure on us. The pressure is on them. It’s the desire and the spirit. I didn’t expect to go 2-0," said Red Bull coach Yeng Guiao.

Neither did the Beermen.