Indonesians blast Phl Patriots

MANILA, Philippines - The Indonesian Warriors took advantage of the AirAsia Philippines’ handicap to score a 104-79 victory yesterday in the AirAsia ASEAN Basketball League at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.

Playing with only one import following the sudden departure of Chris Alexander, the Patriots tried their best but fell short, thus absorbing their second straight loss in the eight-team field.

The 7-foot Alexander, who was tapped to replace Nakiea Miller, hurriedly left for the United States last Thursday without permission from the top management and his absence was felt hard by the Patriots right from the start.

With only the 6-foot-5 Anthony Johnson manning the shaded lane, the Patriots found themselves helpless as Indonesia’s American imports Evan Brock and Steve Thomas, both standing at 6-foot-9, imposed their will to beat the Patriots for the first time in Manila.

It was Indonesia’s first-ever victory in the Philippines in eight tries, thus improving their record to 9-9.

The Patriots, on the other hand, slipped to a share of the lead with the San Miguel Beermen at 13-4.

Both the Patriots and the Beermen are already assured of semis berths.