GJAPS Pirates barged into the semifinals after beating Shai and Shab Beauty Salon, 76-67, in the resumption of the Scottie Thompson Cup Basketball Tournament held at the Elenita Heights in Catalunan Grande, Davao City.
The Pirates, spearheaded by Japs Sabio, leaned on Edsel Enal and Jay Abayon who combined with 21 points.
Sabio said they aim to beat MCC Transport on Sunday to secure a finals berth.
Allie Galacio, meanwhile, paced Shai and Shab with 16 points.
In other games, Tan Crusaders also earned a slot to the semifinals after nipping BC Cuerpo Construction, 97-96, behind Christian Delgado's 21 points and Miggy Dela Cruz's 17 points.
BC Cuerpo, however, relied on Johan Fernandez and Cesar Divinagracia who drilled 27 and 18 baskets, respectively.