THE University of Baguio (UB) Cardinals clinched a twice-to-beat edge in the semifinals of men’s basketball after subduing Saint Louis University in the Baguio – Benguet Educational Athletic League (BBEAL) season 32 Monday evening at the Prince Bernhard Gym.
The UB Cardinals exploded in the second period after a tight contest in the opening canto to secure their sixth win in as many games and earn the top spot in the tournament against a streaking SLU Navigators, 90–70.
After outclassing the Philippine Military Academy Cavaliers on Friday, 95–59, the Cardinals was all business as it slowly charged to an 11–5 lead midway in the opening canto.
The Navigators, enjoying a two game winning streak, then tied the ball game at 12 all, with 2:27 remaining in the first quarter on a technical free throw by Shawn Aquisay.
With the game tied at 21 all in the 9:48 marker of the second period, the Cardinals then outgunned the Navigators, 21-11 in six minutes to post a 42–32 lead with 3:13 remaining in the first half.
From then on, the 25 time men’s basketball champion never looked backed, posting its biggest lead at 66–50 with 3:28 remaining in the third period.
Angelo Cambliza finished the ball game with 16 markers on top of his three triples while Renz dela Cruz wreak havoc inside the paint with 16 despite fouling out early.
Vince Siballuca, who had 16 in his last outing against the Cavaliers added 14 points while Claude Camit chipped in 10 markers.
Despite being outrebounded by the Navigators, 32–31, the Cardinals forced 13 turnover and stole the ball 13 times and had nine triples against SLU’s two.
Aquisay led the Navigators with 14 points. (Roderick Osis)