CEBU, Philippines - Nippon Sports Science University of Japan caught fire in the three-point line as they beat University of Cebu Webmasters, 90-83, in the basketball event of the 1st Asian Pacific University Games yesterday at the University of San Carlos gymnasium in Sanciangko Street, this city.
The Japanese cagers made 12 treys, while the Webmasters of coach Kenneth Kern Sesante only connected four three-point shots.
Three players from Japan registered double figures led by Ebata Kosuke with 17 points as Odagiri Keisuke and Oshito Yusako chipped in 13 and 10 points, respectively.
NSSU took control of the game and posted their largest lead of 12 points, 82-70 in the finals 3:16 of the game off a basket by Yusuke.
John Jabello led the Webmasters with 21 points while Garciano Puerto Jr. added 18 points.
Rookie guard Julian Delatar who was also showing potential with his accurate assists and aggressiveness in defense, inked out 16 markers.
The basketball games will shift action to the USPF gym today.
Meanwhile, Cebu Institute of Technology-University Wildcats will replace Papua New Guinea who failed to participate in the said tournament.— Gabby G. Malagar (FREEMAN)