CEBU, Philippines - Team USA shackled Serbia, 71-61, to top the first round of elimination with an immaculate 3-0 slate in the 2010 Cebu United Bankers Association (CUBA) Christmas Basketball League at the Our Lady of Sacred Heart Parish gym along Escario Street, this city.
The Americans sailed on smoothly to victory after posting an early 30-14 lead. The Serbians threatened at halftime, 32-33, but USA quickly restored a 54-48 advantage and was never threatened the rest of the way.
Earlier, Turkey turned to a furious fourth-quarter assault to turn the tables on Lithuania, 84-77. The Turks trailed for most of the way but suddenly caught fire in the windup to turn back the Lithuanians.
The tournament follows a double round robin format, with the top two teams after the elimination phase fighting it out for the championship.
The names of the four entries in the CUBA event are based on the top four teams in the 2010 FIBA World Championships two months ago in Turkey.
The scores
First game
Turkey (84) - Minoza 21, Osorio 14, Allera 13, Bjorn 11, Gabales 7, Liston 5, Villarin 5, Ivan 4, Olalo 2 Minoza 2
Serbia (77) - Markuzz 19, Tapaya 15, So 13, Adoptante 7, Bartolaba 7, Lim 6, Roces 6, Jimmy 2, Enteng 2
Quarterscores:20-23;41-41;59-60;84-77
Second game
USA (71) - Rosal 16, Baco 14, Yap 10, Ancajas 10, Daclan 7, Bacalla 6, Bernas 4, Malahay 2, Bacalla 2
Serbia (61) - Aparri 14, Chua 10, Navarro 10, Villanueva 8, Solon 7, Cataros 6, Saliz 3, Ruiz 2, Tecson 1. - THE FREEMAN