Team Ngermid Rivals and Airwaves managed grace under pressure as they bested separate opponents in the ongoing 2012 season of the IP&E Amateur Basketball League (ABL) at the Palau National gym.

Down 81-79 in the final minute of the game, Ngermid Rival’s Spis Adelbai took matters into his own hands as he went for a three pointer as they defeated the Stingers, 82-81. Adelbai’s three pointer was a desperate shot but he had a good look at the basket that saved the day for the Rivals.

Adelbai finished the game with 21 points backing Ody Yalap’s 30 markers while Ziske Asanuma paced the Stingers with 26 on the losing end.

On the other hand, Airwaves’ Kalson Dulei showed no signs of pressure as he drilled three free throws that earned them an 87-86 victory over Aqua Smooth.

Down 86-84 in the closing second of the game, Dulei tried for a three point shot but was fouled. He then made sure that his free throws would go down thus earning them the win. He finished with nine baskets while Etitl Mad had 27 as Mekeruul Ueki and Weston leading the pact with identical 17 points each.

Aqua Smooth’s pesky pointman Chris Tangunan led the scoring chores with 44 points but was not enough to fuel his team to a victory.

In other games, Spoilers drubbed the Cardinals, 115-68; PCC Mesekiu down Dngeronger Bullets, 71-59; Mesang Red Storm won over PPR Shark Attack, 78-77; and Surangel Kings beat Kabong, 91-75.

Games resume tonight with Cardinals versus Mesang Red Storm at 6 p.m. followed by the Spoilers-Ngerkesoaol match at 7:30 p.m. while Kabong will face B.O.G. at 9 p.m. February 6 matches will feature Dngeronger Bullets will take on Ididers at 6 p.m. as Nationals will meet Breakers at 7:30 p.m. and Aqua Smooth will tackle Stingers in the main game at 9 p.m.

The tournament is a tobacco, alcohol and drug free program. All violators will be banned from participating. For more information call Topps at 488-4491.  By Peter Erick L. Magbanua (Island Times News)