Jaguars snare Carcar cage crown

CEBU, Philippines - The University of San Jose-Recoletos Jaguars outlasted the University of Southern Philippines Foundation Panthers, 95-87, in their sudden-death final match to clinch the championship of the 1st Mayor Nice Apura Cup Inter-Collegiate Basketball Invitational the other night at the Carcar City Sports Complex.

Flashy guard Jaybie Mantilla erupted with 26 points but it was his consistent play throughout the week-long tournament that earned him the MVP award.

Ralph Joseph "RJ" Dinolan chipped in 20 markers for the Jaguars, who was in complete control after cruising to a 20-13 start. They kept their relentless offensive in the next two quarters to pad their lead to 15 points, 69-54, heading into the last 10 minutes of the contest.

The Panthers staged a spirited endgame fightback but the Jaguars held on their ground to secure an exhilarating eight-point victory.

The Jaguars of coach Jun Noel pocketed P50,000, while the Panthers got P30,000 for their efforts.

Earlier, the University of the Visayas Green Lancers claimed the P20,000 third prize after edging the Cebu Institute of Technology-University Wildcats, 101-91.

City councilor Ian del Rosario and commissioner Julie Flores were on hand to award the cash prizes and trophies to the winners. EBV (FREEMAN)