CKSC downs Hope, bags MMBL crown

MANILA, Philippines - Med Salim fired 24 points, including two pressure-packed charities and a layup in the closing minute, as multi-titled Chiang Kai Shek College held off arch-rival Hope Christian High School, 82-75, to capture the Seaoil-Metro Manila Basketball League crown at the San Beda gym recently.

The Blue Dragons and the HCHS cagers fought it out on even terms majority of the way in a match reminiscent of their Metro Manila Tiong Lian title duel two years ago. But the former put on a stronger finishing kick behind the 6-3 Salim to power CKSC to victory.

For winning the title, the Blue Dragons earned the right to represent Metro Manila in the Seaoil National Basketball Championship which features the other champion teams from different regions in the country.

Coach Goldwin Monteverde credited his wards’ hard work and determination even as he thanked the CKSC alumni, including the basketball committee, for their all-out support to his program.

The title win also served as a big follow-up to their victory in the Milo National Twin Tournaments where it won the Passerelle division in runaway fashion.

Jeanne Camelo made it a double celebration for Chiang Kai Shek College as she exploded for 54 points, including eight triples, in the team’s 102-79 romp over La Salle Antipolo in the girls’ division.

Down 64-69, Hope Christian rallied to tie the count at 72 but Salim calmly hit two free throws and Van Pilanga buried a huge triple in a decisive 9-0 run for a 81-72 lead.

Also shining for Chiang Kai Shel College were Memet Ascano and JV Gallego.