The long overdue explosion of JJ Alejandro finally happened as the senior guard scored eight of his season high 22 points in extra period as National University (NU) keeps its Final Four hopes alive with an 85-79 win over lowly Adamson University Wednesday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The sixth man sank four crucial free throws with 22 seconds left in regulation to grab the lead from the Falcons, and then converted two three-point plays in overtime to lead his team to its fourth win in ten outings.
“It is a matter of time for him,” remarked NU coach Eric Altamirano on his ward. “Expect more explosive games from him.”
The Bulldogs were down most of the game as the Falcons, playing without starting point guard Joseph Nalos due to suspension, were lifted by African center Pape Sarr, who lorded the paint.
Holding a 70-64 lead midway in the fourth quarter, the Falcons were stymied when point guard William Polican inadvertently lost the ball as he collided with referee Dexter See in his spot up attempt for three points.
Alolino then laid in a fastbreak shot then sank one free throw to trim the lead, 67-70 with a minute left.
Disaster happened for the Falcons when Jerome Garcia fouled Alejandro in his three-point attempt, and committed a technical foul in the process for continuous complaining.
Alejandro sank four free throws from Garcia’s foul, followed up by another free throw by Nico Javelona in the ensuing play for a 72-70 lead.
Adamson sent the game to overtime when Ivan Villanueva laid in an open shot from the paint off Frederick Tuncab’s baseline pass.
Alejandro then went berserk in overtime, flushing in with a fastbreak lay-up, sparking an 8-3 run.
The Bulldogs sealed the win with an open triple from Kyle Neypes, who subbed Alfred Aroga after the latter fouled out, as the Bulldogs stay in contention with a 4-6 record.
“It’s just about our mindset. The past few games, we played passive. Now we made a collective effort and played aggressively,” Alejandro said after the game.
Alolino helped him with 17 points and ten assists while Aroga chipped in 17 points and 11 rebounds.
The 1-9 Falcons were led by Sarr with 32 points and 17 rebounds.
