Klyde Batilo scored 23 points to lead Ateneo de Davao in routing Xavier University of Cagayan de Oro, 83-56, and in clinching the Mindanao Small Basketeers Philippines trophy on Sunday in the Milo-sponsored SBP-Passerelle basketball tournament at the Dona Pilar gymnasium in Davao City.
Batilo teamed up wih Patrick Dulay and Kristoffer Competente, who combined for another 23 points in pushing the Davaoenos to the national finals set Nov. 22-23 in Iloilo.
Ateneo de Zamboanga placed third.
Sacred Heart of Jesus Montessori, however, denied the hosts a double feat as it edged Holy Child of Davao, 86-83, in the Passerelle final.
Claret School of Zamboanga placed third in the Passerelle.
Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman William “Butch” Ramirez and Fr. Antonio Samson, S.J., president of Ateneo de Davao awarded the trophies to the winners.
The Visayas regional finals are set Nov. 8-9 at the West Negros gym.
Ateneo is the National Capital Region’s SBP champion, while International School for Better Beginnings of Lucena will represent Luzon.
Passerelle’s Luzon champion, meanwhile, is Don Bosco Pampanga, while Ateneo will represent NCR.