Cebu stops Manila, now 2-0 in Coke PBA Nationals

CEBU, Philippines -  Cebu defeated KABAKA Manila, 65-50, to notch its second straight win at the national finals of the Coca Cola PBA Youngstars Basketball Tournament at the JCSGO Gym in Cubao. Falling to its usual slow start, Cebu woke up in the second period to take control of the game. Down 14-17 at the end of the first period, the Lancers-backed Cebu team streaked to a 26-17 halftime lead. The lead swelled to 43-32 after three periods before the finishing touches were applied in the payoff period.

 While Joshua Flores leading the team with 20 points was expected, Cebu brought out surprise packages in Jifford Cahigas and John Dexter Igot who combined for 35 points. Team sparkplug Orlan Wamar settled for six points and was content with orchestrating the offense of the team.

In other games, Valenzuela tied Cebu at the top of the standings with 2-0 slates after toppling Cagayan de Oro, 68-40. Batangas broke into the winning column via a 65-55 win over Pampanga. Batangas and KABAKA Manila are tied at 1-1, followed by Pampanga (0-2) and Cagayan de Oro (0-2).

The two teams at the end of the single round robin elimination phase square off for the championship. (FREEMAN)