THE University of the Visayas Green Lancers survived a furious comeback attempt by the University of Cebu Webmasters to emerge victorious, 106-105, and take the title in the Uy Masuy Cup at the Cebu City Sports Institute on Sunday, Feb. 16, 2020.
UV was cruising, ahead by 15 at the end of the third after a dominant performance in the first 30 minutes of action. However, UC showed ITS fighting spirit and fought back to make a game out of it. In the end though, UV’s veteran savvy and experience pushed IT to the win to claim the trophy and the P20,000 cash prize.
The Green Lancers’ big man from Ivory Coast, Lass Coulibally, played like a man amongst boys as he piled up 34 points and 13 rebounds along with two steals and a block to help UV finish the pocket tournament with a perfect 3-0 win-loss record.
Jiesel Tarrosa added 19 markers whole Froilan Maglasang drained five three-pointers on his way to a 17-point night. Melvin Butohan also had a double-double performance of 14 points and 12 rebounds.
UC got 22 points from Rodel Gravera and 19 more from Isaiah Blanco. They finished the tournament with a 1-2 card.
Meanwhile in the first game, the IPL Geckos edged the reigning Cesafi champions Southwestern University-Phinma Cobras, 99-98, to claim second place honors after finishing the tournament with a 2-1 card.
Emanuel Toney sank seven three-pointers to finish with 29 points, six assists and four steals. Jarrick Bowe collected 21 markers and seven boards to help his squad bag the P10,000 cash prize.
UC ended up with a 1-2 record, while SWU-Phinma failed to get a win in their three games. (JNP)