Games Tomorrow
(JCSGO gym, Cubao)
2 p.m. – Tanduay vs AMA
4 p.m. – CafeFrance vs Phoenix
Martinez unloads 58 points, 31 coming in the 4th quarter.
James Martinez set a new record with 58 points yesterday as AMA Online Education thrashed winless Topstar ZC Mindanao, 125-76, in the PBA D-League Foundation Cup at the JCSGO gym in Cubao, Quezon City.
The former University of the East star erupted for 44 in the second half, including 31 in the fourth quarter, as the Titans pulled away from a 49-40 halftime advantage to score their fourth win in 10 games this conference.
Martinez made 22-of-41 shots on his way to breaking the previous league mark of 41 set by Mac Belo in Phoenix’s loss to Caida Tiles in this year’s Aspirants Cup.
“May nagsabi na sa akin na 40 na yung ginagawa ko at 41 yung kay Belo. Sila (AMA) coach Mark (Herrera) at yung mga teammates ko na rin ang nagsasabi na dagdagan ko pa,” said Martinez of his career day.
The 29-year-old guard had already been making most of his shots in the third quarter that saw the Titans extend their lead to 81-64, before the team put a conscious effort in putting the ball into his hands to shatter Belo’s record.
“Marami rin akong mintis e pero ayos naman kasi shumoot na nung bandang huli at nakatsamba,” said Martinez.
JR Taganas grabbed 27 rebounds, falling two shy of tying the record he set last year, while scoring 13 points as AMA won in its first game since bowing out of semifinal contention last week.
Scores:
AMA 125 – Martinez 58, Taganas 13, Montemayor 10, Jordan 9, Macaranas 9, Asuncion 8, McCarthy 7, Bragais 4, Calma 4, Ortega 3, Arambulo 0, Belleza 0, Carpio 0
TOPSTAR 76 – Jumao-as 19, Cawaling 16, Garcia 12, Ongteco 7, Argamino 6, Tano 6, Julkipli 5, Rivera 3, Dadjilul 2.
Quarters: 19-19; 49-40; 81-64; 125-76.