THE PNP Responders overpowered the Malacañang Kamao, 71-63, for their eighth victory in 10 games in the UNTV Cup Season 5.
With the win, the Responders matched the record of early semifinalists BOC Transformers and the Judiciary Magis, but will claim a quarterfinal seat only in the process, the same as their victims.
Anton Tolentino was hailed as the Best Player of the Game after burying 19 points, grabbing 5 boards and making 2 steals.
Meanwhile, the BFP Firefighters did not allow the NHA Builders to force a do-or-die game as they clinched the final ticket for the quarterfinals.
BFP’s Gilbert Malabanan sank the game-winner in the last 1.9 seconds as the Firefighters pulled off a thrilling 80-79 win.
The Builders ended their campaign with a 4-6 mark.
The AFP Cavaliers, the PNP Responders, the Malacañang Kamao and the BFP Firefighers begin their quarterfinal battles on Sunday.
In the meantime, the BOC Transformers and the Judiciary Magis now comfortably wait for the semifinal round.
Team Standings: BOC Transformers (8-2), Judiciary Magis (8-2), PNP Responders (8-2), Malacañang Kamao (6-4), AFP Cavaliers (6-4), BFP Firefighters (6-4)
Games Sunday
(Pasig City Sports Center)
3 p.m. PNP Responders vs BFP Firefighters
5 p.m. Malacañang Kamao vs. AFP