Aegis draws first blood in CSCC E-League Finals

CEBU, Philippines -  The Aegis Vipers easily slammed the Lexmark Stallions, 80-67, to gain a 1-0 upstart in their best-of-three finals series in the 9th CSCC E-League for Basketball last Sunday at the City Sports Club-Cebu gym.

Aegis could wrap up the crown with another win in Game 2 scheduled at 2:30 p.m. on November 9, although they must brace for an all-out war as Lexmark will surely give their best shot with hopes of extending the series into its full route.

Aegis again displayed excellent teamwork in crushing Lexmark. Steve Warren Navaja pumped in 19 points and two steals, Ryan Veloso added 15 points on top of 11 rebounds and two blocks for the Vipers, who kept Lexmark at bay after cruising to a hot 23-12 start.

The Vipers toned down in the middle quarters, but went back to usual business in the final period to seal the 13-point victory.

Dean Junber Escalon finished with 14 points, four rebounds, and two steals for Aegis, while Rodulfo Enterina III banged in 11 points and four rebounds.

Jake Pia paced Lexmark with 19 points, three rebounds, two assists and as many steals, even as three others charted double figures in a losing effort.

Niel Tiempo had 15 points, three rebounds and two steals followed by Franco Angelo Cipriano 14 points, seven rebounds and two steals for Lexmark, which is now faced with a no-tomorrow situation heading into next week's Game 2. (FREEMAN)