The Iloilo United Royals lost their first home game of the ongoing Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League Lakan Cup, falling 56-52 last Thursday to the Pasay Voyagers at the University of San Agustin Gym in Iloilo City.
After being down by as much as 14 points in the third quarter, Iloilo went on a run behind Ryan Arambulo, Jasper Parker, and Donald Gumaru to get to within 51-50. Pasay then managed to extend the lead to 54-50 but split free throws by Rey Publico and Frederick Rodriguez brought Iloilo to within 54-52.
The Ilonggo side was able to convert a basket in the next play but was waived off due to 24-seconds violation.
With 14 seconds left in the game, Alejandrino Iñigo drained two free throws for Pasay. A subsequent turnover by Iloilo dashed any hopes of pulling off a come-from-behind win.
Arambulo was the lone double-digit scorer for Iloilo with 12 points, while Parker and Richard Escoto each scored seven.
Iñigo and Elmar Moradas top-scored for Pasay with 12 markers each./ASC, WDJ