Reduced to a mere back up in the team’s last two wins, Espinas took charge of Hapee’s bristling assault this time, drilling in a gamehigh 22 points and grabbing 13 rebounds to lead the Teeth Masters to their third straight win and fourth overall in seven starts.

Espinas’ splendid showing also gave coach Junel Baculi what he wanted from the other teams: Respect.

"Nagparamdam lang kami, hindi kasi kami pinapansin," said Baculi with a smile. "I hope with this win, baka pansinin na kami ng ibang teams dyan."

In the second game, Magnolia Dairy Ice Cream recoiled from the brink of defeat to score a spine-tingling 69-65 win over Granny Goose Tortillos — thanks to Kelly Williams.

Williams was at the right time at the right place as he towered over three Granny Goose defenders to score on a putback following a miss by Kim Valenzuela with just 1.7 ticks left.

With the win, the Wizards, who lost to the Insurers, improved to 6-1.

Baculi was particularly delighted with the performance of his top gunner, adding: "Medyo nakatulong yong long break natin kaya gumaling na ang injury niya. Kahit si Gabby talagang gigil na ipakita ang stuff niya."

Aside from grabbing solo second in the eight-team field, the Teeth Masters also improved their chances of gaining one of two outright semis berths.

Showing none of brilliance of their stunning 65-60 win over the Wizards last Thursday, the Insurers dropped to 2-5.

Espinas also got able support from Jason Castro and Khiel Misa who combined for 34 points.

While the Teeth Masters did impressively from the field, shooting 29-of-58 tries for 50 percent, the Insurers managed only to convert 27 of 73 attempts for a paltry 37 percent.