Jaguars settle for 3rd place

CEBU, Philippines — The University of San Jose-Recoletos (USJ-R) Jaguars reaffirmed their dominance over the Cebu Institute of Technology-University (CIT-U) Wildcats via a 91-84 decision to claim the third place honors in the 1st Brgy. Capt. Kirk Bryan Repollo Inter-Collegiate Basketball Tournament-St. Augustine Cup last Tuesday evening at the Emilio R.M. Jaca Sr. Cultural Center and Sports Complex in Barangay Inayawan, Cebu City.

Elmer Echavez dropped 24 points, while Renz Solomon, Juan Miguel Gastador and John Robles combined for a total of 44 points for the Jaguars, who used a fierce third-quarter assault to pin down the Wildcats.

After a 43-all standoff at halftime, the Jaguars unraveled a searing 24-14 run to seize full control of the match, 67-57, going into the final 10-minute zone of the contest.

The Jaguars of coach Loede Garcia pocketed P15,000 for their efforts.

Jessie Aloro exploded for 30 points but his singular offensive outburst proved futile for the Wildcats. They did not go home empty-handed though as they got a consolation prize of P10,000.

As of this writing last night, the University of Cebu (UC) Webmasters and the University of Southern Philippines Foundation (USPF) Panthers were still slugging it for the championship of the week-long tournament that is among the highlights of Inayawan’s annual fiesta celebration in honor of their beloved patron St. Augustine of Hippo on August 28. (FREEMAN)