DEFENDING champion Holy Child College of Davao Red Eagles-Unit 7 clawed Jose Maria College (JMC) Kings-bannered Unit 5, 71-60, at Holy Cross of Davao College (HCDC) Gym yesterday, November 22, to barge into the finals of the Davao City Athletic Association (Dcaa) Meet 2019 secondary boys basketball competition.

Coached by Nestor Sorrosa and Roger Rabago, the Red Eagles leaned on Kyle Jamora who poured in 18 points while Victor Bedoya and Axl Taporco chipped in 13 and 12 baskets, respectively.

Unit 7 shrugged off Unit 5-Private Schools Athletic Association’s early five-point lead by snatching a 32-30 advantage at the break behind the efforts of Jamora and Bedoya amid penalty situation.

The reigning titlist, cheered by parents, classmates, teachers, alumni and former HCCD players, pumped up gas in the third period as Jamora’s triples helped Unit 7 stretch the lead to 10, 49-39.

Prisaa made attempts to close the gap in the final canto but was foiled by the Reds’ tightened defense. The latter never looked back to claim its ticket to the finals.

The battle for gold is set at 8 a.m. today, November 22, at the same venue. (MLSA with Koii Canarias/HCCD Sports Development Office)