Xavier completes Tiong Lian semis cast

MANILA, Philippines - Four-time defending champion Xavier School waylaid host Grace Christian College, 131-62, to complete the semifinal cast in the Metro Manila Tiong Lian Basketball Association (MMTBA) Tournament at the Uno High School gym last Friday.

Jeron Teng came away with another big game, firing a game-high 35 points as the Golden Stallions arranged an interesting showdown with long-time rival Chiang Kai Shek College on Tuesday.

The other semis pairing pits top seed and unbeaten Hope Christian High School against St. Jude Catholic School at 7 p.m. in the tournament presented by Regan Industrials Sales Inc. and World Balance.

The Stallions showed too much firepower for the GCC side with three others churning out 21 points or more.

Paolo Cabero sizzled with 26 points while Kyles Lao and rising star Jarrell Lim chipped in 23 and 21 points, respectively.

Like Hope Christian, which won all its six games in the elims, Xavier enjoys a twice-to-beat edge over 14-time champion CKSC in the event backed by Uratex, Burlington, Summit Drinking Water, 100 Plus, Supreme Steel Pipe, Superior Pipe, Ace Water Spa and Molten.

If Xavier beats the CKSC, it will advance to the finals for a record 12th straight time.

The Golden Stallions and the Blue Dragons share the existing record with 11 each.

The Blue Dragons still remain the winningest team in the league with 14 with the Golden Stallions behind with 10.

Hope Christian, on the other hand, is seeking an end a 19-year-title drought.