USLS down CSA-B in 13th TKP tourney

UNIVERSITY of St. La Salle-President's Gym opened its campaign in the 13th Tan Kek Pin Memorial Basketball Cup with a victory over CSAB 78-66 at the TTHS Po Hang Gym.

Choi had a dismal first half offensive, as they can only manage 10 points in each of the quarters for 20 points, while USLS was able to score on several fastbreak points to register 35 points at the break.

In the 3rd quarter, USLS continued to pull away as they posted a 54-35 advantage but CSA-B's Alfred Valle and Johnson Salazar ignited an 11-2 run to cut the deficit to 10 points.

USLS's Nike Montalvo's 3rd quarter buzzer-beating layup gave President's Gym a 58-46 cushion.

Choi opened the 4th quarter on a 10-2 run behind its inside incursions and offensive putback, as CSA-B cut the deficit to 60-56 on a Peewee Demonteverde follow-up.

USLS restored order on their offense, as Janus Calma sank a top of the key trey, and teammates Allen Dionela and Mark De La Cruz scored on layups for a 67-58 lead with 4 minutes left in the game.

However, Laborte bullied his way in the shaded lane with 6 straight points to cut the lead to 3 points, but another Calma trey from the same spot gave USLS some breathing room.

Balgos' two free throws with 2 minutes left proved to be the last points for CSA-B, as turnovers hounded Choi while USLS was able to get their points from the 15 foot line, with De La Cruz making 4 of 6 gift shots.

Thirteen players delivered at least 4 points for President's Gym led by Calma with 15 pts , backstopped by De La Cruz with 13 points, Montalvo and Scott Salvacion picked up 6 points each while Mark de Real and Dave Chuatico scored 5 points each.

Ruel Balgos had a game-high 19 points in a losing effort while Alfred Valle added 15 points. Laborte, who arrived late in the 3rd quarter, scattered 12 points all in the 4th quarter while Salazar had 13 points. (Stephen Tan/Contributor)