Richard Escoto pushed the Iloilo United Royals in the fourth period to secure an 88-85 upset over the Manila Stars earlier this week in the ongoing Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League Lakan Cup at the San Andres Sports Complex in Manila.
After being held to one point in the first three quarters, Escoto contributed a three-pointer and an inside hit in the final period, coupled with shots from Rodel de Leon and Cedric de Joya, Iloilo turned a 72-64 deficit into a 79-77 advantage.
Manila later managed to take an 80-79 lead off a Jeric Fortuna triple before Escoto knocked down four free throws, along with de Joya and de Leon converting two-pointers, and securing a come-from-behind win for the Ilonggo team.
Escoto scored a total of 10 points, with nine coming in the final quarter, alongside 11 rebounds.
Meanwhile, de Leon top-scored with 19 points; Ilonggo player Aaron Jeruta fell short of a triple-double with 16 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists; and Al Francis Tamsi scored 12 markers./ASC, WDJ