KUALA LUMPUR—Elmer Reyes fired 16 points, while Kenneth Yap added 13 as the 60s of the Filipino-Chinese Basketball Veterans Association advanced to the finals with a 58-37 drubbing of host Club 51 in the 26th Asean Veterans Basketball Tournament yesterday at the MABA gym here.
Though slowed down by numerous injuries in the past, the 58-year-old Reyes still managed to flash some of his patented moves to lead the 60s to their ninth finals appearance in 10 years.
For their win, FCVBA now has two teams in the finals with the 65-years-and-above team—also being handled by Edster Sy—cruising first after completing a two-game sweep of their group elims.
Backed by Ironcon Builders’ Jimi Lim, Freego’s Eduard Tio, Johnny Chua and Rain or Shine’s Terry Que, the 65s will be going for a title repeat against Hatyai of Thailand—the same team they beat in the elims.
FCVBA can make it 3-of-3 if the 50s of coach Mac Tan hurdle Hatyai of Thailand. They were still playing at presstime.
Bannered by Allan Caidic, Benet Palad, Gerry Tee, Bong Tan, Joey Sta. Maria, Rodolfor Noel, Jr. Aristeo Guevarra and Stephen dela Cruz, the 50s swept the five-team Group 1 elims Thursday.
Both the 50s and 60s are seeking a three-peat in the annual tournament for players with Chinese blood.
Reyes was ably supported by Julio Cruz, Kenneth Yap, Aris Franco, Andrew Ongteco, Jose Lao and Conrad Siy.