Cavaliers, Warriors eye finals

MANILA, Philippines — Defending champion Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and newcomer Department of Environment Natural Resources (DENR) look to seal a title duel as they go for series-clinching wins against semis rivals Judiciary and National Housing Authority tomorrow in the eighth UNTV Cup at Paco Arena.

Determined to become the first back-to-back champions of the annual tournament for public servants, the AFP Cavaliers try to put away the Judiciary Magis in Game 2 of their best-of-three series at 3:30 p.m.

The Cavaliers took the opener, 79-74, last Sunday to move on the threshold of a fourth finals appearance in the event organized by UNTV president and CEO Dr. Daniel Razon.

Backstopped by former national players Eugene Tan and Boyet Bautista, the Cavaliers are the winningest team in the league with three titles.

The DENR Warriors, on the other hand, are likewise favored to prevail over the National Housing Authority Builders in their 5 p.m. showdown.

With Ralph Lansang, Melvin Bangal and Ed Rivera combining for 50 points, the Warriors beat the Builders of coach Benneth Palad, 79-63, in their previous match.