Burger King, Hapee triumph

Burger King leaned on its San Beda College recruits as it scored a come-from-behind 89-83 victory over Pharex in the 2009 PBL PG Flex Linoleum Cup yesterday at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.

JR Tecson and Borgie Hermida combined for 20 points in the final period as the Stunners erased a nine-point deficit to turn back the Generix and post their second win following their 76-91 loss to Hapee last Sarurday.

Tecson, who played sparingly in the Red Lions’ three-peat championship in the NCAA, pumped in 13 points in 13 minutes to power the Stunners to the victory.

He finished with a solid 4-of-6 shooting, including 3-of-4 from the 3-point area.

Hermida also scored 13 points that went along with his eight assists, five rebounds and two steals in 25 minutes of action.

“When I told the bench to step up they delivered,” said Burger King head coach Allan Gregorio. “It’s not a part of the game plan but it was about getting ready, they got the heart of a champion and they knew that this is a perfect opportunity to step up.”

With the win, Burger King moved into third place behind unbeaten Harbour Centre and Magnolia Purewater.

In the second game, Hapee trounced Toyota Otis, 76-67, to tie Burger King at third.

Roel Hugnatan shot 16 points and hauled down seven rebounds while Jervy Cruz tallied 11 points and 15 rebounds as the Complete Protectors notched their second win in three starts.

With Burger King trailing 58-55, Tecson and Hermida combined for 13 points in a big 15-3 run as the Stunners surged ahead for good, 70-61.