Two FCVBA teams gain Asean finals

MANILA, Philippines - The Filipino-Chinese Veterans Basketball Association (FCVBA) stayed on course for a sixth straight title by downing Hat Yai of Thailand, 45-36, in the semifinal round of the 50-years division in the 23rd ASEAN Veterans Basketball Tournament Friday at the Science Sports Center in Bangkok, Thailand.

With former PBA player Elmer Reyes and Ben Ong making their outside shots and Ng Yuk Chi and Kenneth Yap dominating the shaded lane, the Filipino seniors pulled away from a tight first half to advance to the final against elimination tormentor ZAAP Sports of Bangkok.

The Filipinos’ 46-38 defeat to the host squad last Wednesday was their first in six years – no thanks to three unsportsmanlike fouls slapped against them.

“Medyo mabigat ang host country kaya we have to work hard,” said coach Joel Yap.

Backed by Rain or Shine, Freego, Ironcon Builders and Eton, FCVBA also sent its 40-years squad to the final after pulling off a 65-53 overtime win over Miri of Malaysia.

Lorencio Lim and former pro Braulio Lim led FCVBA with 15 and 12 points, respectively, to stay unbeaten in four games in the annual tournament.

Despite the presence of former Crispa center Noli Banate, FCVBA’s 60-years team fell to Pontianak of Indonesia and was relegated into a battle for third place.