Dragons defeat Patriots

THE WESTPORT Malaysia Dragons drew big games from their imports Tiras Wade and Brian Williams as they defeated the AirAsia Philippine Patriots, 97-93, in an overtime thriller in the Asean Basketball League late Sunday at the Ynares Sports Arena.

Wade had 34 points while Williams had a monstrous double-double game with 30 points and 18 rebounds.

Former University of the Visayas Baby Lancer Patrick Cabahug also chipped in 17 markers for the Dragons, which improved to 10-9 (win-loss).

The Patriots, on the other hand, fell further back in their hunt for the lead in the standings as they are now at 14-5.

The Dragons led by as many 16 points, 46-30, but saw that lead evaporate in the second half.

The Patriots took the lead, 82-80, after a layup by Al Vergara. The Dragons tied the game up and sent the game to overtime after two freethrows by Cabahug.

The extra session was fought just as intensely as the game was tied for the final time at 91-all off a three pointer by Cebuano Aldrech Ramos.

However, the nail on the Patriots’ coffin was hammered by Wade, who shot a three pointer for a 94-91 lead. /Correspondent Jonas Panerio