Hope, NU take PSSBC opener

MANILA, Philippines - Hope Christian High School routed Jose Rizal U, 78-63, to kick off its title retention drive but UAAP champion National University went through a wringer before nipping Xavier School, 82-81, in overtime at the start of the second Philippine Secondary Schools Basketball Championship (PSSBC) at the Chiang Kai Shek College gym in Manila Saturday.

With Joebert Mercado and Jollo Go on the firing end, Hope Christian broke away in the second quarter and the defending champions cruised past the Light Bombers in the tournament dubbed as the “Battle of Champions.”

Former Phl Youth mainstay and reigning UAAP MVP Hubert Cani hit a jumper in the closing seconds as the Bullpups foiled the stubborn Stallions in the extra period.

Mercado finished with 16 points, veteran John Apacible chipped in 10 while Go hit three triples to highlight the team’s well-balanced attack.

Also winning their opening day assignments in the tournament sponsored by Welcoat Paints, MEC Computer, Jumbo Plastic Linoleum, Hapee Toothpaste, Ironcon Builders, Wrangler, Dickies Underwear and Ever Bilena were Ateneo, which blasted St. Stephen’s High School, 88-58, and last year’s runner-up San Sebastian College, which outsteadied host school Chiang Kai Shek College, 59-54.

League chairman Dioceldo Sy welcomed the rising stars from UAAP, NCAA and Tiong Lian and an array of sporting personalities, including special guest Chito Loyzaga, during the brief opening rites.

“I want to thank the board of trustees for their continued support and the NCAA UAAP and Tiong Lian for their participation,” said Sy.