THE reigning champions, Cebu Landmasters-2003, dismantled the Puresteel Manufacturing Corporation-2011, 99-75, to take a 1-0 lead in the best-of-three semifinals in Division B of the 26th Sacred Heart Ateneo Alumni Basketball Athletic Association (SHAABAA) basketball tournament last Sunday, Sept. 24, 2023 at the Magis Eagles Arena.
The writing was on the wall early, as 2003 zoomed in front, 23-10, after the first period. They kept it going and even raised their lead to a high of 35 before cruising to the dominant win.
Justin Huang was unstoppable with 31 points and 12 rebounds, while Daryle Tan had 19 points and nine boards.
In the other Division B semis showdown, the Efficascent Boost-BRC-2010 routed the 04 the Win-2004, 57-41, for a 1-0 series lead.
Jasper Diaz demolished the opposing defense and came up with 16 points, 18 rebounds, and three assists. Kevin Dinsay added 10 points and eight rebounds to help offset the cold shooting performance of ace guard Gabe Branzuela, who made just one of his 13 attempts from the field. The crafty guard did have eight rebounds and six assists. / JNP