PCU routs EARIST in NAASCU caging

MANILA, Philippines – Jon Von Tambeling and Yves Sazon sizzled with 34 points apiece as Philippine Christian University crushed new member EARIST, 123-85, for a smashing start in the 16th NAASCU men’s basketball tournament at the Makati Coliseum.

Tambeling, the MVP in the recent MBL Open, and Sazon flashed awesome shooting while Fidel Castro, Mike Ayonayon, Andro Catipay and Brent Pallatao also stepped up to power the Dolphins to the emphatic victory.

Dan Natividad and Bryan Hilario scored 21 points apiece for the EARIST Red Fox.

Earlier, Endurun College surprised Manuel Luis Quezon University, 71-63, while Lyceum of Subic Bay trounced AMA University, 84-74.

Handled by former FEU standout Pippo Noundo, the Titans drew big games from 6-6 Collins Wabo (14 points, 13 rebounds), Mark Gatdula (12) and Errol Villar (11) to subdue the Stallions.

Chris Bitoon finished with 21 points while Jaymark Mallari chipped in 15 markers for MLQU.

LSB, seeking a comeback under former San Beda College standout-turned-coach Kerwin McCoy, relied on Allen Formera, Carl Lumbao, Kevin Pelaez and Renz San Luis to beat AMA.

The Titans were paced by Daniel Salonga, Jerome Ortega and Jayson Jordan.