MANILA, Philippines – CafeFrance and Phoenix-Far Eastern U rode on explosive starts to fashion a pair of lopsided victories to gain a share of the early lead in the PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City yesterday.
Congolese big man Rod Ebondo poured in 12 of his 16 points in the second period as the Bakers blasted the Mindanao Aguilas, 89-65, while the Accelerators drew double-digit outputs from six players as they clobbered the Wangs Basketball Couriers, 107-70.
Ebondo also dominated the boards on both ends, finishing with 17 rebounds to go with two assists and two blocks. His presence alone was a huge boost for CafeFrance, which outscored Mindanao, 46-24 in the paint.
Joseph Manlangit chipped in 13 markers and six rebounds, while Mar Villahermosa had 11 points for the Bakers.
Dexter Garcia paced Mindanao with 21 points and six rebounds.
Phoenix-FEU also showed its class later in the day, blowing past Wangs Basketball by 37 points with Mac Belo and Ed Daquioag leading the attack with 22 and 20 points, respectively.
The Accelerators, who also drew 11 points from Raymar Jose and 10 markers each from Russell Escoto, Achie Iñigo and Alfrancis Tamsi, stamped their class early and raced to an 18-4 lead before piling up baskets after baskets to post leads of as many as 48, 98-50.
Jonathan Banal paced Wangs Basketball with 17 points and five rebounds while Gwyne Capacio added 12 markers.
Meanwhile, action resumes today at the same venue with AMA debuting against the powerhouse Caida side at 2 p.m. while Tanduay collides with UP QRS/JAM Liner at 4 p.m.