CEBU, Philippines — The University of San Carlos (USC) Warriors subdued the University of Southern Philippines Foundation (USPF) Panthers, 76-67, in their sudden-death final match to rule the 1st City of Naga Basketball League (CNBL) Inter-Collegiate Championship on Sunday night at the Enan Chiong Activity Center.
Kurt Trangia dropped 20 points while Froiland Mangubat and Roosevelt Jelianggao banged in 18 and 16 markers, respectively, underscoring the Warriors’ balanced attack.
USC of coach Bong Abad trailed by three points at halftime, 35-38, but was able to turn things around in the final half on the way to pocket the P100,000 champion’s purse.
USPF, led by Nigerian import Rich Managor and RR Cauba with 15 points apiece, still has something to be happy about as it got P75,000 for finishing first runner-up.
In the battle for third place, the University of San Jose-Recoletos (USJ-R) Jaguars survived the University of Cebu (UC) Webmasters, 85-82.
Elmer Echavez, Tricky Peromingan, Nicole John Ubalde and Fletcher Galvez combined for a total of 74 points for the Jaguars, who received P50,000 for their efforts.
Tristan Albina fired 20 points while Paul Galinato and Darrell Shane Menina conspired for 27 points in UC’s losing cause. (FREEMAN)