Patriots trip Slingers, clinch second semis berth

MANILA, Philippines –  Gabe Freeman provided the energy and firepower while Egay Billones the clutch baskets as the AirAsia-Philippine Patriots repeated over the Singapore Slingers, 80-73, and booked the second semis berth in the AirAsia ASEAN Basketball League (ABL) Season 2 yesterday at the Ynares Sports Arena.

Freeman did just everything on the court to help the Patriots to their eight win in 12 games, thus joining surprise leaders – the Chang Thailand Salmmers – into the Final Four.

The former San Miguel import got into foul trouble early but still finished with 17 points, 10 rebounds, two assists and a steal.

“He’s really a big help to the team. He’s very dependable. His feistiness rubbed off to his teammates,” said Patriots co-owner Mikee Romero.

The win was the third straight for the Patriots over the Slingers who dropped to 5-7. The defeat put Singapore’s semis bid in jeopardy.

Coach Louie Alas also paid tribute to the razzle-dazzle performance of Billones.

“He’s a kind of player you can depend on at crunch time. He can make things happen even at a very difficult situation,” said Alas.

The PBA veteran scored six of his team-high 21 points in the last two minutes to help thwart Singapore’s repeated rallies. He also had three rebounds and an assist.

With the Patriots protecting a precarious 70-64 lead, Billones made two crucial field goals as against two free throws by Leo Avenido to increase the gap, 74-62.

Freeman and Benedict Fernandez opened the fourth quarter with a booming triple each giving the defending champions their biggest lead at 64-53.

Steve Thomas, the other Patriots import finished with 12 markers and 15 boards.