MANILA, Philippines – Saint Francis of Assisi College launched its bid in the National Capital Region-Universities and Colleges of Luzon Athletic Association (NCR-UCLAA) basketball tournament in style, beating National College of Business and Arts, 79-54, at the Valdez Hall of PATTS College of Aeronautics in Sucat, Parañaque recently.
Paolo Castro came away with 17 points as he combined with Michael Cenita and Jon Michael Cruz to power the SFAC Doves to the lopsided win.
With Castro on the firing end, the Doves took an early 22-9 lead then Cenita and Cruz joined the fray in the second half as the Doves raced to as many as 29 points en route to the easy victory.
“It’s too early in the tournament. We still have to meet the top teams,” said SFAC coach Gabby Velasco in downplaying his wards’ 25-point romp.
Owned by Arturo Orosco Sr., the Doves are hoping to bring their winning act in the league after reigning in the NCAA South the last two years.
The Doves, who produced the De Ocampo brothers, Ranidel and Yancy, have a combined 13 titles from the NCRAA and UCLAA – two leagues that merged last year.