Grand & Jai clinches FYA cage crown

CEBU, Philippines - Daniel Enriquez hit a crucial jumper in the final eight seconds of the contest to vault Grand & Jai to a 75-73 win over Steven Jocabz and clinch the championship of the 4th F. Llamas Youth Association (FYA) basketball tournament last Wednesday night at the Brgy. Tisa gym.

Enriquez, who played for the University of Cebu (UC) Webmasters two years ago, finished with 15 points and his consistent performance throughout the league earned him the coveted MVP trophy.

Baeng Medalle, who topscored for Grand & Jai with 22 points, joined Enriquez into the Mythical Five along with Dexter Caballero, Ryan Villaver and Chissar Llegunas.

Calbert Malicay of Team Leo Lauron stole part of the limelight after grabbing the the Sportsmanship award.

An overtime was in the offing after Steven Jocabz knotted the count at 73-all, but Enriquez came up with a huge jumper in the final eight seconds to the delight of his teammates and Grand & Jai's supporters.

Caballero had 23 points for Steven Jocabz, while Ranel Patalita added 15 markers.

Earlier, Simple Likes Barbecue Haus edged out Chariz and Caleigh, 105-101, to settle for third place honors.

Mclean Alkuino paced Simple Likes with 24 points, while Ryan Villaver and playing coach Noel Medalle added 19 and 17 points, respectively.

The scores

For third

Simple Likes (105) - Alkuino 24, Villaver 19, Medalle 17, Laurente 12, Dumaguit 10, Jakosalem 10, Lañojan 10, Ramoneda 3

Chariz & Caleigh (101) - Lavandero 28, Llegunas 24, Abella 19, Nudalo 14, Reubal 11, Cañete 4, Villordon 3

Championship

Grand & Jai (75) - Medalle 22, Enriquez 15, Arreglo 0, Baldago 10, Cañete 8, Codilla 4, Tomada 4

Steven Jocabz (73) - Caballero 23, Patalita 15, Mirasol 11, Marata 6, Cajucson 5, Garcia 3, Pacaña 2. (FREEMAN)