Reigning NCAA titlist San Beda University and Far Eastern University scored contrasting wins Saturday to jumpstart their title bids in the 8th PSSBC-Freego Cup at the SGS gym in Quezon City.
The Red Cubs used a big second-quarter attack to beat the Xavier School Stallions, 100-66, in Group D action, while the Baby Tamaraws banked on the clutch plays of Vince Saldua and John Rey Pasaol to escape with a 72-68 win over NCAA runner-up Lyceum in Group C.
Looking to win their third title in the event dubbed as “Tournament of Champions”, the Red Cubs trailed early but outscored the Stallions, 31-14 in the second frame to pull away for good.
Five SBU players scored in double figures with Justine Sanchez leading the way with 24 points and 16 boards, while Rhyyan Amsali and Yukien Andrada combined for 27 points in a show of force for the Manu Inigo-mentored squad.
Miguel Tan expectedly led the Stallions with 28 points spiked by three triples on 11-
of-17 shooting from the field. He grabbed 12 boards to complete a double-double showing.
Ryan Yu added six points and seven rebounds in almost 27 minutes of action in the tournament headed by its chairman Eduard Tio of Freego.
Other members of the board are Dioceldo Sy of Blackwater Sports, Jimi Lim of IronCon Builders, Jimmy dela Cruz of Jumbo Plastic Linoleum, Rudy Yu of Macbeth Underwear, Dr. Cecilio Pedro of Hapee Toothpaste, Leoncio Chua and Terry Que of Poly Gloss-Rain or Shine.
The tournament was officially opened by Freego President Daisy Go.
Other winners on opening day were La Salle Greenhills, which pipped La Consolacion College, 87-85, and Ateneo, which outlasted san Sebastian College, 81-76.