IF THEY will learn how to shoot their free throws consistently, the Air21 Express would absolutely end up better than this game.

New-look Air21 missed 17 free throws and absorbed a close 87-92 setback against San Miguel Beer in their opening game at the 35th Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Fiesta Conference on Wednesday at the Araneta Coliseum.

Although there was something wrong with the officiating in the final part that really cost them the game, Air21 head coach Yeng Guiao admitted the team’s terrible 23-out-of-40 free throw shooting was the one that hurt them most.

“You don’t need to be a genius to realize how important your free throws are?” said Guiao, who continuously as king his players to concentrate more on their free throws.

“If we convert most of our free throws, I think we win that game.”

Air21’s reinforcement Keena Young, who scored 16 of his 23 points in the second half, made both free throws in the last 1:09 left to cut down San Miguel Beer’s lead to 87-88.

Rookie Ronnie Matias, who had nine points and five rebounds, scored five straight points through the charity line to turn a 78-86 deficits to only 83-86 with almost two minutes remaining.

Young, who also collected 21 rebounds and dished out three assists, made a basket and completed two free throws to narrow the gap to 87-88 before San Miguel Beer’s Alex Cabagnot and Anthony Jay Washington responded with two baskets to seal the deal.

Ronjay Buenafe poured in 13 points on 3-of-5 shooting beyond the arc, while hulking Beau Belga got 12 points and returning Renren Ritualo tallied eight points. Ramsey Williams had six assists for Air21.

Newly-acquired Mike Cortez, who came from San Miguel Beer via trade involving Alex Cabagnot, issued four assists and scored only three points.  

Despite the first loss, Guiao is confident Air21 could bounce back against Barako Bull and Coca-Cola before the Holy Week unfolds.

Reigning Fiesta Cup champion San Miguel Beer’s import Gabe Freeman led SMB with 23 points and 21 rebounds with additional two blocks, while Anthony Jay Washington added 19 points and seven rebounds.

Express’ notes: Franchise team owner Bert Lina and daughters Bertha and Donna May were there at the gallery supporting the return of the ‘Ube Republic.’