PBA: Red Bull edges Air21, 102-92

April 4, 2008

MANILA, Philippines — Another huge game from the league’s biggest reinforcement.

Adam Parada pumped in 28 points for another all-around solid production as Red Bull hammered out a 102-92 decision over Air21 to grab the solo lead in the Smart-PBA Fiesta Cup Friday at the Araneta Coliseum.

The 7-foot Parada, a mainstay of Mexico’s national team, also collected 12 rebounds and four blocks to lead the Barako to their second straight victory.

Mike Hrabak also took charge in a decisive run late in the third period, hitting three triples in a 14-6 stretch that turned a slim 64-63 edge into a 78-69 margin.

The surge continued with Junthy Valenzuela and Parada opening the fourth quarter with a 9-2 spurt that widened the gap to 12 points, 89-77.

And the buffer seemed comfortable enough for Red Bull coach Yeng Guiao, who kept Parada at the bench in the last seven minutes after picking up his fifth foul.

Finishing off for the Barako was Leo Najorda, who scored all of his seven points in the closing minutes to keep the Barako ahead at 98-86 at the 2:12 mark

“We’re still getting comfortable with our import,” said Guiao of Parada, who debuted with 28 points, 21 boards and five blocks in the Barako’s 89-83 nipping of Ginebra.

“He’s still feeling out the game. But the good thing about our import is he’s not a heavy scorer. He doesn’t cancel out our local talents. That’s exactly what we needed in the team. His style is complementary to our locals.”

The Express absorbed their first loss after opening with a 105-96 triumph over Welcoat last Sunday.

The scores:

Second Game

RED BULL 102–Parada 28, Hrabak 12, Valenzuela 12, Adriano 9, Sharma 8, Alvarez 8, Baguio 8, Najorda 7, Cruz 5, Pennisi 3, Robinson 2, Bugia 0, Ybañez 0.

AIR21 92–Thomas 31, Santos 19, De Ocampo 11, Arboleda 11, Cruz 8, David 6, Se 4, Canaleta 2, Kramer 0, Espinas 0, Sotto 0.

Quarters: 20-22, 47-43, 80-75, 102-92

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