PBA D-League: Marinero gains share of early lead behind debuting Jaime Malonzo

By Jonas Terrado

Jaime Malonzo didn’t disappoint in his debut as Marinerong Pilipino defeated ADG Dong-Mapua University 83-69 Monday to gain a share of the early lead in the PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup at the Paco Arena in Manila.

Showing his athleticism, Malonzo finished with 23 points, 11 rebounds, four assists and six steals as Marinerong Pilipino joined Builders Warehouse-University of Santo Tomas on top with a 2-0 slate.

“Malaking tulong talaga si Jaime and hopefully maging consistent siya parati,” said Skippers coach Yong Garcia.

The former La Salle standout was taken second overall by Marinero after AMA Online Education Senior High opted to pass the opportunity to name Malonzo as the No. 1 pick in the draft.

Malonzo was given the green light to play after completing necessary requirements that forced him to miss Marinero’s season-opening win over Karate Kid-Centro Escolar University last week.

Juan Gomez de Liano had 18 points, 11 rebounds and four assists while Alfred Batino also scored in double figures with 14 points while grabbing seven boards.

Batino conspired with Dhon Reverente in the third quarter that enabled Marinero to pull away from a 40-38 halftime lead.

The two combined for 12 points in the period to put the Skippers ahead 62-51.

Laurenz Victoria and Carl Bryan Lacap scored 16 and 14 points for ADG Dong-Mapua in the loss.

The scores:

MARINERONG PILIPINO 83 — Malonzo 23, Ju. Gomez de Liano 18, Batino 14, Reverente 9, Lalata 6, Laput 6, Manday 3, Rios 2, Fuentes 2, Mangahas 0, Solis 0, Senining 0.

ADG DONG-MAPUA 69 — Victoria 16, Lacap 14, Gamboa 11, Agustin 7, Lugo 7, Bonifacio 4, Nocum 4, Bunag 2, Pido 2, Nieles 2, Mercado 0, Salenga 0, Sumugat 0.

Quarters: 20-16; 40-38; 62-51; 83-69.

Source: Manila Bulletin