By Romeo Braceros Jr.

Photo: ABL

Zamboanga Valientes defeated the Singapore Slingers 87-79 on Sunday at OCBC Arena to complete the Singapore Circuit of the 2023 ASEAN Basketball League (ABL) Invitational.

Along with 10 rebounds, five assists, four steals, and 10 of his 28 points, Antonio Hester had a great third quarter for the Philippine team.

But Rudy Lingganay was the one to light up the scoreboard in the dying seconds, hitting nine points in the final five minutes, including two three-pointers that gave Zamboanga a 13-3 run and an 87-72 advantage with 1:16 remaining.

The Valientes finished this leg of their season with an even 2-2 record as the seasoned guard finished with 14 points, three rebounds, and three assists.

James Kwekuteye contributed nine points and three boards to the victory, while American import Ryan Smith recorded a double-double with 15 points, 13 rebounds, and three blocks.

When Zamboanga takes on the Macau Black Bears on January 17, it will attempt to continue this streak on the Indonesian Batam Circuit.

Chanceler Gettys had 19 points and 14 rebounds in the losing effort, while Kentrell Barkley led the Slingers with 29 points and 11 rebounds.