Dumanjug makes history, wins first-ever Calderon Cup crown

CEBU,  Philippines — Dumanjug completed a two-game sweep of Malabuyoc in their best-of-three finals series with another decisive 97-79 victory to become the first ever champions of the Calderon Cup 21 Under Inter-Town Basketball Tournament last Saturday night, May 9, at the Jose Macoy Astrodome in Dumanjug town, south of Cebu.

Renz Nathan Villarojo shepherded Dumanjug to the historic crown with 20 points on an efficient 8-of-12 shooting from the field. He also had three rebounds, two assists and as many steals.

Raquel James Teleron added 17 points and eight rebounds while two other players cracked double figures in Dumanjug’s title-clinching victory.

Big man Cleveron Jay Fernandez bagged 13 points on top of four boards and two dimes while Jhun Miguel Telmo recorded an 11-point, 11-rebound double-double with two assists, two steals and a block for Dumanjug, which pocketed P200,000 for their trailblazing feat.

Dumanjug was ahead by only four, 46-42, at the break but staged a sizzling offensive show in the second half to thrash Malabuyoc by 18 points.

Dumanjug ended the third period with a double-digit 77-66 edge before cruising to a 20-point advantage, 96-76, in the closing seconds of the lopsided contest.

Jake Leo Quim fired a game-high 25 points with five rebounds, five assists and two steals but to no avail for Malabuyoc. 

Kyle John Cardosa came up with 15 points and two rebounds while Chris Donne Gadiana had 11 points and seven assists in a losing effort.

In the battle for third-place trophy, Jesham Saban and Vil March Amacna powered Alegria to an 84-73 drubbing of Moalboal.

Saban dished out a double-double of 22 points and 12 rebounds with two assists and four steals for Alergia. Amacna also tallied 22 markers on top of five rebounds, four assists and three steals.

Arnold Janssen Cuevas chipped in 14 points, five rebounds, two assists and two steals while Kendrick Mascardo contributed 10 points for Alegria, which was firmly in control after a hot 18-10 start.

Alegria’s largest lead stood at 15 points, 82-67, in the waning moments of the game.