The smallest guy on the floor drilled two clutch three-point shots late in the fourth quarter as Cebuana Lhuillier subdued RnW Pacific Pipes, 77-64, on Thursday in Philippine Basketball Association Developmental League Aspirants Cup at the Arellano University Gym.

It was the third consecutive win for the Gems in as many games.

“Nangangapa pa kami,” offered Cebuana coach Luigi Trillo about their struggles in the first half.

“We missed all our 13 three-point attempts in the first half. And those were open shots. But I’m pleased with our half-court defense in the second half. That was the key in slowing down Pacific Pipes.”

Manuel, a former Philippine Basketball League Most Valuable Player, was a bundle of energy in the third quarter. He was active on defense while pouring 10 points in the period to get Cebuana Lhuillier’s offense going. The Gems outscored the Steel Masters, 25-11, in the third and closed the quarter with a 54-42 advantage.

“What can I say? He’s a winner. He wins wherever he goes,” said Trillo of his hard-working forward, who went nine-of-14 from the field.

RnW Pacific Pipes appeared done after the third quarter but a fiery surge in the final seven minutes enabled them to make the game exciting.

(Dave Coros)