CEBU, Philippines - The Convergys Converters and the Teleperformance All Stars completed a two-game sweep over separate rivals to set up a championship showdown in the 11th CSCC E-League men's basketball tournament last Sunday at the City Sports Club-Cebu gym.
The Converters dashed the title hopes of Lexmark Stallions via a close 71-68 decision, while the All Stars terminated the Accenture Sharks, 83-77. They will commence their best-of-three title clash on November 14.
The Converters used a balanced attack in fending off the Stallions, with five players cashing in double figures led by Franz Dione Dysam with 19 points, five assists, three steals and three rebounds.
Sherwin Resilla chipped in 12 points spiked with 16 rebounds, four blocks, four steals and three assists. Lourenz Limpangog also nailed a dozen markers on top of seven rebounds for the Converters, who kept the Stallions at bay after posting an 18-point lead at halftime, 45-27. They suffered an offensive meltdown in the final half, but held on their ground firmly when it mattered.
Kenneth Dysam and Angelo Lucero finished with 11 points apiece, even as they also combined for 16 rebounds, four assists and three steals for the Converters.
Sylvester Millevo churned out 27 points, six rebounds and as many steals in a losing effort for the Stallions.
On the other hand, Dean Junber Escalon sparkled with 20 points and Karlo Rafael Miñoza added 17 points for Teleperformance, which rode on a steady offensive in the second period and a solid endgame finish to oust the Sharks. Escalon and Miñoza were heavily backed up by Rodulfo Enterina III with 14 points, six assists, four steals and three rebounds.
Archie Batua banged in 28 points and 13 rebounds, while Marlon Gonzales unloaded 16 points and 13 rebounds to no avail for the Sharks.— EBV (FREEMAN)