By Adrian Stewart Co

The Alaska Aces showed they are still a formidable squad, despite a decimated lineup, following their 94-72 victory over Columbian Dyip in the 2019 Honda PBA Philippine Cup last night at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

Carl Bryan Cruz led the way with 17 points, seven rebounds, and eight assists for the Aces, while Elvin Jake Pascual and Chris Exciminiano added 13 and 12 points, respectively.

The Aces were shorthanded with leading local scorer Vic Manuel out for the rest of the eliminations, while veterans Jvee Casio, Kevin Racal, and Simon Enciso are nursing injuries.

Their absence, however, was hardly felt as the Aces surged to a 32-18 advantage on shots from Exciminiano and Jeron Teng. The Dyip come to within 41-36 but baskets by Cruz gave the Aces a 46-36 halftime edge.

The Dyip were still behind 51-42 when the Aces went on a huge run courtesy of Exciminiano, Banchero, and Jesper Ayaay for its largest lead of 30 points on a triple by Cruz./ASC, WDJ