CJAY Perez led San Miguel back from a 15-point deficit after going scoreless and battling foul trouble in the first half of their PBA Commissioner's Cup match.
The second half told a different story as Perez exploded for 20 points including 15 in the fourth quarter while finding a way to stay away from a fifth foul during the thrilling 85-82 San Miguel win over Barangay Ginebra.
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The win wiped out what was, at first, a frustrating night for Perez until he started knocking down shots to atone for his 0-of-5 shooting in the first half.
“Frustrating kasi sabi ko nga kanina, pumunta ako dito para mag-basketball, hindi para magpa-cute sa bench,” said Perez, who only played nine minutes in the first half due to foul trouble.
Perez ended up playing 26 minutes, 17 of the possible 24 in the second half, while only getting one foul the rest of the way. He made a lay-up with 1:59 left for an 82-78 lead, giving the Beermen enough breathing space against the Gins.
Perez's heroics helped San Miguel erase a 23-8 deficit while also chipping in eight rebounds, three assists, and three steals.
“Nakaka-frustrate siya pero nag-focus ako, stay composed, nilaro ko lang yung laro ko nung second half. Nagbunga naman. We are grateful na nanalo kami,” said Perez.
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