Newcomers start hot in FYA cagefest

CEBU, Philippines - League newcomers Ankla and Habagat Cockers made an auspicious debut in the 3rd F. Llamas Youth Association (FYA) basketball tournament at the Sitio Manggahan open court in Brgy. Punta Princesa, this city.

In the opening match, Ankla slammed defending champion Simpolang Barbecue Haus, 64-49, while Habagat scored a 60-50 victory over the Viking Haulers behind the late surge of Nico Laborte and Mark Arias.

Chrissar Llegunas topped Ankla with 14 points, while Royce Sonsona chipped in 10 markers.

In the other match, Laborte and Arias sank crucial triples in the final five minutes of the contest to turn the tide of the match in favors of Habagat.

Laborte finished with 15 points for Habagat, while his older brother Adrian "Tata" Laborte added 12 markers. (FREEMAN)