Saturday, June 02, 2007 Yap scores career-high 41 pts. as Purefoods tames Dragons
JAMES Yap established a new career high yesterday as he led the Purefoods Chunkee Giants past the Welcoat Dragons, 109-97, in the 2007 Talk ‘N Text PBA Fiesta Conference elimination round at the Ynares Center in Antipolo City.
Yap, a former PBA most valuable player (MVP), banged in 41 markers built around a 6-of-14 shooting from the three-point area and a perfect 5-of-5 from the free throw line as the Giants ended their elimination round campaign with a 6-12 win-loss record to secure a place in the wildcard phase.
The Dragons, for their part, played their final game in the conference as they became the first team to be eliminated with their 4-14 win-loss record.
The Giants, who welcomed the entry of Rommel Aducul from the Barangay Ginebra Kings with a victory, was dominant in the game against the Dragons as they took a 25-14 advantage at the end of the opening period.
Purefoods formalized its trade deal with Red Bull Thursday, acquiring Adducul in exchange for Don Camaso and the Giants’ second round pick in the coming draft.
Earlier, Red Bull acquired Adducul from San Miguel Beer in exchange for Enrico Villanueva.
Purefoods increased their edge to 52-31 at the bend and continued to floor the gas pedal in the final half to secure the easy win.
Peter June Simon, who celebrated his 27th birthday yesterday, also played a big game for the Giants as he chipped in 16 points on to of eight rebounds, while Roger Yap contributed eight points of his own for Purefoods, who led the Dragons, 75-57, entering the final period.
Rey Evangelista also played a big game for the Giants of coach Ryan Gregorio as he knocked in eight points, grabbed 11 boards and made three assists, while import Marquin Chandler had 23 points for the team.
The losing Dragons of coach Leo Austria were headed by import Wayland White, who scored 29 points, and Rob Wainwright, who added 16 markers including several three-point shots in the final period. (JSV)
