By Adrian Stewart Co

Iloilo United Royals fell 70-67 last Thursday to the San Juan Knights in the ongoing 2019-2020 Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League-Lakan Cup at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.
Down by as much as 12 points in the fourth quarter, Royals center Rey Publico spearheaded a huge 12-1 blast to get to within 68-67 with 59 seconds remaining in the game. Iloilo then had a chance to take the lead but a floater attempt by Aaron Jeruta was blocked by Mike Ayonayon. The Knights went on to build a three-point cushion after Jhonard Clarito drained two clutch free throws.
Publico attempted to tie things up and force the game into overtime but missed a three-pointer attempt.
Clarito finished with 22 points, eight rebounds, and four steals for San Juan; while John Wilson and Orlan Wamar each chipped in 12 markers; and Publico earned a double-double on 17 points and 10 rebounds.
Meanwhile, Richard Escoto provided 13 points, five assists, four rebounds, and four steals for Iloilo; while Al Francis Tamsi had 10 points and four rebounds./ASC, WDJ