Calvin Oftana hit the game-winning layup to help NLEX pull off a late shocker against Meralco, 81-80, and force sudden death in the 2021 PBA Philippine Cup quarterfinals Wednesday at the DHVSU Gym in Bacolor, Pampanga.
Down one, 79-80, after Mac Belo missed both his free throws for the Bolts, the Road Warriors managed to draw up a play off the timeout for Oftana, who darted into the lane for a wide-open layup to put NLEX ahead in the final six seconds.
Meralco had one more shot to win it, but Cliff Hodge came up empty on a desperation heave.
Anthony Semerad led the charge for NLEX with 23 points. Oftana and Don Trollano finished with 12 apiece, while Jericho Cruz added 10.
Allein Maliksi scored 16 to lead Meralco in the loss.
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