NHA thwarts DA, wrests UNTV lead

MANILA, Philippines — National Housing Authority fended off Department of Agriculture’s rally and eked out a 75-73 victory to grab the solo lead in Group B while Armed Forces of the Philippines notched its second straight win in the seventh UNTV Cup at the Pasig City Sports Center recently.

The NHA Builders built leads of as many as 18 points in the first half but needed to clamp down on defense in the stretch to foil the Food Masters and nail their third straight win in the annual tournament for public servants.

Antonio Lustestica scored 23 points while Marvin Marcado added 14 markers for the Builders who are off to their best start in the event offering P4 million to the chosen charity of the champion team.

Former UST star Emerson Oreta had 17 points for the Food Masters, who dropped to 2-1.