In a dominant display of skills, EcoOil-La Salle defeated Centro Escolar U in Game 1 of the PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup finals, 98-72. The reigning champions are now one step closer to securing their third consecutive championship title.
Despite missing Abdul-Wahab Olusesi, Centro Escolar U struggled to contain Henry Agunanne and Jonnel Policarpio, who both scored 17 points each for EcoOil-La Salle. Olusesi was sidelined with a left knee sprain that he sustained in the semifinals against Marinerong Pilipino-San Beda.
Assistant coach Gian Nazaro acknowledged CEU’s momentum coming into the game but praised his team for their solid performance. The Green Archers took an early lead with a 23-9 start and extended their advantage to 39 points.
JC Macalalag, Raven Cortez, and EJ Gollena also contributed to EcoOil-La Salle’s victory, giving them a shot at becoming the second winningest franchise in D-League history with a potential three-peat.
