CEBU, Philippines - Royce Sonsona pumped in 10 straight of his 12 points in the final period as Team ANKLA rallied past pre-tournament favorite CRV, 104-100, to clinch the championship of the 3rd F. Llamas Youth Association (FYA) basketbal tournament at the Sitio Manggahan open court in Brgy. Punta Princesa, this city.
In the battle for third placed, the Habagat cagers demolished Vikings, 82-59.
The game was still tied at 100-all in the final 20 seconds of the contest but Sonsona made a crucial steal leading to a breakaway layup that gave ANKLA a 102-100 edge.
After CRV's missed attempt, they went for quick foul to stop the clock and ANKLA's side calmly sank two free throws to wrap up the match.
Sonsona's prolific showing earned him a place in the Mythical Five selection along with MVP Chissar Llegunas, who led ANKLA with 20 points, Dexter Caballero of CRV, Nico Laborte of Habagat and Dondon Cadungog of Vikings.
Burnong Endrina and Onyot Masongsong added 16 and 14 points, respectively, for ANKLA.
Caballero paced CRV with 28 points, while Ep-ep Torrelisa and Ranel Patalita connived for 31 points in a losing effort. Their teammate Wako Dacayana bagged the Sportsmanship award.
The league, sponsored by MJDL Brokerage and Harold Hotel, was made possible through the efforts of tournament director Boy Atillo and Punta Princesa barangay councilor Leo Lauron.
The scores
For third
Habagat (82) - T. Laobrte 27, Abella 13, Guy 10, Aunza 9, Arias 8, Oropa 4, N. Laborte 3
Vikings (59) - Cadungog 21, Baldago 16, Pacaña 10, Medalle 8, Basalo 7, Cal 7, Sydiongco 5, Lañojan 3
Championship
ANKLA (104) - Llegunas 20, Endrina 16, Masongsong 14, Sonsona 12, Pelaez 11, Pardenilla 8, Aglipa 6, Joedon 5, Tolentino 4, Cabanday 4, Joridini 2
CRV (100) - Caballero 28, Torrelisa 16, Patalita 15, Estella 10, Cabañes 8, Enriquez 6, Tomada 6, Babao 5, Cañete 4, Dacayana 3