Blackwater slips past Café France for third win in Aspirants Cup

Isiah Ciriacruz and Clarke Bautista's timely baskets in the third quarter pulled Blackwater to a 92-86 win over Café France Tuesday in the PBA D-League Aspirants Cup at the Lyceum gym. Ciriacruz hit a three-pointer and made a fastbreak lay-up while Bautista drained two triples that highlighted Blackwater's 20-10 blast in the third period as the Elite took control of the match. Ciriacruz and Bautista's baskets allowed Blackwater to take command after Café France kept the Elite on their toes. "We struggled with our shooting. That's why I told the boys we need to value every ball possession since our opponents have also prepared against us. The key for us is to stay in control," said Blackwater coach Leo Isaac. Blackwater climbed to the top spot in the standings with a 3-0 win-loss card. The Elite can continue their winning roll when they face Freego Jeans on Thursday. Jeric Fortuna scored a team-high 18 points for Blackwater. Isiah Ciriacruz and Bautista added 17 and 16 each. Mac Montilla's 23 points led Café France, which also got 14 and 10 markers each from Jeff Viernes and Ramon Mabayo. The Bakers remained winless in two matches after bowing to Boracay Rum in their conference opener. — JVP, GMA News