Hope enters Freego semis

MANILA, Philippines - Hope Christian High School (HCHS) extended its Cinderella run after pulling off a 70-69 escape over Far Eastern University to barge into the semifinal stage of the fourth FCBL Freego Cup over the weekend at the Buddhacare Gym.

King Benemirito stole an in-bound pass from the Baby Tams player for the game-winning lay-up capping the thrilling finish in their knockout quarterfinal match of the annual high school cagefest also supported by Talk ‘N Text.

The golden basket capped the 21-point performance of Benemirito, who went on to bag the Freego Player of the Game honor.

HCHS faces National University in another knockout semifinal game, which starts today.

The Bullpups encountered little trouble in dispatching University of Perpetual Help, 97-79, to advance to the next stage of the tournament also supported by Powerbest Mktg Inc., Colt Commercial, Oceanic Container Lines Inc., Old Chinatown Kopitiam, Mandarin Sky Seafood Shabu-Shabu Restaurant, Jumbo Plastic Linoleum, Fresh Gear, Apple Tape and Happe Toothpaste.

Ralph Tansinco had a game-high 22 points to lead NU, which led from start to finish. Anel Aguilar and Daryl Pascual each had 18 markers for Junior Altas.

Defending champion San Beda and Mapua arranged their own semifinal encounter after posting similar lopsided wins against their respective quarterfinal foes.

The Red Cubs, behind the 22 points of Francis Abarcan, walloped Xavier School, 92-71, to remain the undefeated team in the tournament as they swept the elimination phase.

The Red Robbins, on the other hand, banked on the 35-point explosion of Jay Alejandro to beat Adamson, 80-66, in their quarterfinal match. Angelo Araveno had 17 markers for the Baby Falcons.