Tayud crowned U15 champs in Alegado Summer League

CEBU, Philippines — Tayud banked on an explosive fourth-quarter performance to turn back Cansaga, 94-81, and emerge as champions in the 15 Under division of the 1st Mayor Alegado Developmental Summer League in the municipality of Consolacion in northern Cebu.

Trailing by seven, 43-50, at halftime, Tayud slowly but steadily chiseled away the deficit to pull within just two points, 66-68, entering the final 10-minute mark.

It was then that Tayud delivered a crushing 28-13 blow to knock Cansaga out by 13 points in the end.

Leonel Mapa fired 25 points with six rebounds and three assists for Tayud to become the Finals Most Valuable Player.

Philip Anselmo Espra added 24 points, three rebounds, and five assists, while Joshua Mahinay was the other double-digit scorer for Tayud with 13 points on top of three boards and as many assists.

Espra made it to the Mythical 5 alongside James Lawrence Bascon of Casili, Aaron Palang of Garing, and brothers Paul Vincent and Mart Vincent Tundag, who was also the season MVP, of Cansaga.

The Tundag brothers, however, were not able to play for Cansaga in the championship because they left for Manila after being recruited by the National University (NU) Bulldogs in the UAAP.

Chanryl Maglasang stepped up with 23 points, seven rebounds, and five assists but to no avail for Cansaga.

Orbein Rosello, Francis Sapio and Apoy Maglasang connived for 30 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists in a losing effort. — (FREEMAN)