Greg Slaughter’s intimidating presence carried the NorthPort Batang Pier to an important 91-88 overtime triumph over the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters in the 2021 Philippine Basketball Association Philippine Cup Sunday at the DHVSU Gym in Bacolor, Pampanga.
The 7-foot Slaughter blocked Gabe Norwood’s three-point attempt at the buzzer, allowing Batang Pier to score their fifth win in 10 games and stay in contention for a playoff slot.
It was also Slaughter’s layup in the 1:46 mark which tied the match at 80-all in regulation, paving the way for the overtime period and Batang Pier’s spirited closing-game effort.
“I just told them that our last two games will be a playoff win for us,” said Batang Pier coach Pido Jarencio, who is back with the team after more than a two-week absence.
Jarencio underwent quarantine in Metro Manila after testing positive for COVID-19.
The 33-year-old Slaughter tallied 25 points, 11 rebounds and six blocks for Batang Pier, with his block on Norwood keeping the Elasto Painters from forcing a second overtime period.
Rain or Shine, who has a 6-5 slate, struggled to make a decent basket in the fourth quarter with attempts by Rey Nambatac and Mark Borboran missing their marks.
Jewel Ponferada powered the Elasto Painters with 17 points.
