Sharks eliminate Pioneers in E-League

CEBU, Philippines - Archie Brian Batua had 16 points on top of 10 rebounds and three assists as the Accenture Sharks terminated the Sykes Pioneers, 61-53, in the Elite Classic of the 12th CSCC E-League men's basketball tournament at the City Sports Club-Cebu gym.

Marloni Gonzales added 12 points, five rebounds and two steals while Junas Marion Misa chipped in 10 markers, three rebound, three assists and two steals for the Sharks, who used a steady offensive in the final half to end the season of Sykes.

Trailing by seven points at halftime, 24-31, the Sharks rallied in the third, 22-14, then closed the match with 15-8 bang to advance into the next stage of the tournament.

In the Evo League, the Contact Solutions Flying Lemurs, Dyninno Raptors and Teleperformance All-Stars bested their twice-to-beat foes to live and fight for another day.

Jerard de la Cerna exploded for 35 points as the Flying Lemurs turned back the QBE Generals, 86-76, Ron Mabanto and Rainier Dominic Obenza connived for 35 points to power the Raptors past the Kyocera Frontiers, 68-52, while Dean Junber Escalon fired 21 points laced with three rebounds and two assists as the All-Stars upset the ePerformax Reds, 70-55. (FREEMAN)