Wild Columbian shocks Alaska

Import Khapri Alston erupted for 38 points and 22 rebounds in a scorching 63 percent shooting from the field. #ColumbianshocksAlaska

CJ Perez added 28 points and 13 rebounds. (CD)

Columbian spoiled the coaching debut of Jeffrey Cariaso as it ran over Alaska, 117-110, in the opening salvo of the Philippine Basketball Association Governors’ Cup Friday night at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Import Khapri Alston caught fire while CJ Perez provided support for the Dyip, who had a great performance against an Alaska squad that was obviously struggling under a new system.

Alston erupted for 38 points and 22 rebounds in a scorching 63 percent shooting from the field while Perez, who is still fresh from a stint in the FIBA Basketball World Cup, added 28 points and 13 rebounds.

“One thing I can say is that we have a really good import, he can post, he can score, he can pass, he’s very smart. And even if he’s just 6-foot-3 and a half, he plays like he’s 6-foot-10,” said Columbian head coach Johnedel Cardel.

With Alston spearheading the attack, the Dyip erected an 11-point lead, 107-96, in the final two minutes.

Import Justin Watts refused to lose, putting Alaska back into the game 101-107, but they ran out time as the Dyip were able to hang on to an impressive victory.

Watts delivered 40 points and 14 rebounds while Abu Tratter posted 15 points, nine rebounds and three steals in his first game with the Aces.