Condura, Panasonic, Syntax win Sharp-BUS Group opener

A TWO-HOUR delay of the opening of Sharp-BUSG invitational tournament at West Negros University gym never dampened the spirit of those 40-Uppers celebrating Father's Day on Sunday.

Condura spoiled BACIWA's debut with a close 79-75 triumph following the ceremonial toss by Tournament Commissioner Bing Soyao to start the league.

Berto Celis shot 18 points and led 4 other double digit scorers for the Ref Masters who trailed 34-36 at half. Felipe Tumamot hit 13, Bernie Chan added 12, while Matt Rayo and Digol Benedicto chipped in 11 each.

Guerson Sipe and Sammy Belangel combined for 35 points but the rest of the Water Dealers, who were outscored 22-13 in the third quarter, came up short with only Eric Abanilla contributing 8 markers and Mayo Salazar 6.

In contrast, Panasonic dealt Melfern/San Dionisio with a surprising 88-57 demolition as Rey de Guzman scattered 22 points, mostly on medium jumpers and Hermi Derwill found his range with 18 markers, two from the triple area.

Melfern center Rene Verde dominated the paint with 21 points but only Jose Cadagat could get away with 10 points as support. San Dionisio AC were never in the game as Panasonic took the half 49-25 and never looked back.

Syntax, meanwhile, relied in its free throw shooting at crunch time to edge Homesite Basketball Organization, 75-72. Arnel Tornilla, Raymundo Sapa, Dagol Flores were 2 for 2 from the line while Rex Bayer was 2 of 3 to wither a late rally of HBO.

Edgar Basco powered under the boards with 13 points, Tornilla 13, Flores 11 to support Bayer's 15. Rigor Bayer added 8 and Sapa 6 for Syntax' first win.

HBO, which trailed by 40-44 at half, was led by Richard Occida's 21` points. James delos Reyes added 14 with barreling drives and Amit Teruel another 14 markers 9 coming from the arc.

Buddy Ferrer's bunch trailed 40-44 but stayed close even if center Bon Tong limped off the court never to return with a sprained ankle in the third quarter.

Tournament format is a single round robin elimination, crossover semifinal and knockout final.