ERIC Verano nailed two free throws barely five seconds remaining to lift West Ridge to an 80-78 win over the short-handed Kenyanes in the resumption of the Davao City Water District (DCWD) Ballers Club tournament recently at the Rivera Village covered court, Davao City.
Llyod Binolo, meanwhile, missed a potential game-winning three point heave from halfcourt as the buzzer sounded for the end of regulation.
"Nagrelax sa ko bago gitira aron mawala ang kaba (I relaxed first before I took those shots)," Verano said, pertaining to his crucial free throws.
The win helped them improve their record to 5-3 as the Kenyanes dropped to 4-4.
Verano tospcored with 19 points, 15 of which came during the third period surge of West Ridge after trailing by 10 points at the break. They erupted to a 14-7 run to lead, 49-45.
Kenyanes, however, lost steam with only five players present. Thus, West Ridge capitalized on their short-handed rivals.
"Bisan lima lang sila, lisod gihapon pildihon (Even if they were only five players, it was difficult to beat them)," Verano added.
Jay Chua led Kenyanes with 15 points as teammates Simon Ayeng and Azucena chipped in 14 and 13, respectively.
In another game, Dexterity doused cold water on El Heat, 55-52. (KRP)