Simple Blends hands Team Kobe first loss

CEBU, Philippines —  Simple Blends drew a dazzling performance from Ralph John Belarmino as they dealt Team Kobe its first loss, 52-44, in Hoop Nation’s Arlon Cup Season 1 at the City Sports Club-Cebu gym.

Belarmino produced a splendid double-double show of 21 points and 15 rebounds for Simple Blends, which jumped to second place in the East Division with a 7-2 win-loss record.

Jonas Mejos was held off to 10 points for Team Kobe, which saw its eight-game winning streak come to a sudden red stop.

In the other East duel, Randy Ty scattered 16 points, five rebounds and three assists as the Brothers overcame Tera, 66-63, for their third victory in eight starts.

 Aldrin Fernandez tallied 17 markers but to no avail as Tera dropped to 2-6.

Over in the West, RKC pulled off a 64-62 squeaker over Manumen.

Mark Michael Pahid cashed in 24 points on top of 13 rebounds and three assists as RKC triumphed for only the second time in seven games.

 Raul Pangilinan sank four 3-pointers of his 24 points spiked with eight rebounds but his efforts went for naught as Manumen fell to 2-6. — EBV