Kings, Sailors win cage openers

DEFENDING champion Jose Maria College (JMC) Kings and the Agro Industrial Foundation College of the Philippines (AIFCP) Sailors won their respective assignments during the opener of 27th Kadayawan sa Dabaw Mayor Inday Sara and Vice Mayor Rody Duterte Inter-Collegiate Basketball Tournament at the Davao City Recreation Center Almendras Gym Monday.

The Dodong Cagampang-mentored Kings opened their title-retention bid on a high note after beating the DMMA College of Southern Philippines (DCSP) Orange Mustangs, 97-87.

Jumabon Bulac scored 20 point for the Kings, including four treys. Bob Ombecan and Francis Cutin added a combined 29-point output to give Bulac scoring support.

The Orange Mustangs were led by Ronald Bangoy, who fired 28.

Cagampang, in an interview after their victory, said they focused more on defense to force turnovers which led to easy baskets on the other end.

The Sailors, meanwhile, cruised past the AMA Computer College (AMACC), 98-88, led by Gabi Danganon, who drilled in 23 points, including a 16-point explosion in the fourth quarter. AMACC's John Lumogda poured in 33 points in a losing effort.

The champion in the tournament will earn the right to represent Davao City in the upcoming Philippine Collegiate Champions League Mindanao Finals slated on October in Iligan City.

The event is organized by the Sports Development Division of the City Mayor's Office and sanctioned by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas. (RPSA)