Red Cubs, Baby Tams off to triumphant starts

MANILA, Philippines — Reigning NCAA titlist San Beda University and Far Eastern University scored contrasting wins Saturday to jumpstart their title bids in the eighth PSSBC-Freego Cup at the SGS gym in Quezon City.

The Red Cubs used a big second-quarter attack to beat the Xavier School Stallions, 100-66, in Group D action while the Baby Tamaraws banked on the clutch plays of Vince Saldua and John Rey Pasaol to escape with a 72-68 win over NCAA runner-up Lyceum in Group C.

Eyeing a third title in the event dubbed as “Tournament of Champions,” the Red Cubs trailed early on but outscored the Stallions, 31-14, to turn the game around.

Five SBU players scored in double figures with Justine Sanchez leading the way with 24 points and 16 boards while Rhyyan Amsali and Yukien Andrada combined for 27 points in a show of force for the Manu Inigo-mentored squad.

Miguel Tan led the Stallions with 28 points spiked by three triples on 11-of-17 shooting from the field. He grabbed 12 boards to complete a double-double showing. 

Ryan Yu added six points and seven rebounds in almost 27 minutes of action in the tournament headed by its chairman Eduard Tio of Freego.