By Vivem Soriano
Eagle News Service
Reigning four-time MVP June Mar Fajardo scored 34 points, grabbed 13 rebounds, dished out 3 assists and blocked 3 shots to lead the defending Philippine Cup champions San Miguel Beermen to a 107-93 rout against Globalport Batang Pier.
Globalport was a tough customer though.
Turnovers and sloppy plays had powerhouse SMB down at the half 43-47.
It was still a close game at the end of the 3rd quarter but San Miguel managed to grab the lead over Globalport, 74-72.
But in the 4th and final quarter, SMB unleashed a 25-5 run to finally put away the pesky Globalport squad for good.
Fajardo’s college teammate Brian Heruela, who played more minutes than usual due to star guard Alex Cabagnot’s injury, scored 17 points, 2 rebounds, 5 assists and 6 steals.
Former MVP Arwind Santos and sharpshooter Marcio Lassiter also scored 17 points apiece for the Beermen.
Globalport meanwhile was led by Stanley Pringle’s 23 points.
Kelly Nabong and Sean Anthony added 15 points apiece.
With the win, San Miguel moved to a perfect 5-0 record and will try to maintain their perfect slate on Sunday in a titanic battle against sister team Ginebra.
Globalport however crashes to a 2-3 win-loss record and will next face Meralco on Sunday as well.
Boxscores:
SAN MIGUEL 107 – Fajardo 34, Heruela 17, Lassiter 17, Santos 17, Ganuelas-Rosser 10, Ross 6, De Ocampo 4, Pessumal 2, Mamaril 0, Semerad 0, Vigil 0.
GLOBALPORT 93 – Pringle 23, Nabong 15, Anthony 15, Araña 11, Grey 9, Gabayni 6, Sargent 4, Guinto 4, Juico 3, Elorde 3, Taha 0, Flores 0.
Quarter Scores: 22-25, 43-47, 74-72, 107-93.