Poro nears quarterfinals in Governor’s Cup hoopla

CEBU, Philippines — Poro overcame Tudela, 71-68, in a closely-fought battle of Camotes Island teams for its third straight win in North Division Bracket 2 of the 2nd Cebu Governor’s Cup 2018 Inter-Cities and Municipalities Under-21 Developmental Basketball Tournament last Thursday night at the Tudela covered court.

Early on, Poro appeared to have sailed towards a smooth-sailing victory after racing to a n 18-9 lead.

Tudela, however, fired back in the second quarter, 21-15, to stay within striking range at halftime, 29-33.

After the break, Poro banked on the hot hands of Mhar Nino Florentino and Rhome Jake Lucernas to regain a 62-53 edge going into the final period.

Despite the loud cheers of its hometown fans, Tudela failed to capitalize on its advantage that includes the fouling out of Florentino and Lucernas in the final minutes of the contest.

Rod Ryan Digal topscored with 22 points, while Florentino and Lucernas connived for 25 points as Poro inched closer to clinching a quarterfinal berth.

In the other games, San Francisco began its ascent to the standings after thrashing Borbon, 96-66, while Sogod logged its first win at the expense of Catmon, 85-76. San Francisco is now tied with Borbon on identical 2-1 records. -EBV