UC frustrates USJ-R in OT

CEBU, Philippines - The University of Cebu Webmasters rallied from 13 points down, then toiled hard in overtime to stun the University of San Jose-Recoletos Jaguars, 100-96, in a thrilling season-opener in the collegiate division of the 14th Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation, Inc. (CESAFI) last night at the Cebu Coliseum.

Earlier, the UC Junior Webmasters scored a masterful 69-55 whacking of the USJ-R Baby Jaguars.

The Webmasters dismantled the Jaguars' 80-67 lead in the  third period, closing in at 74-80 off a five-point blitz by Justin Dacalos.

Edmundo Catipay gave the Jaguars their last lead in the regulation period, 86-85, and were just 37 seconds away from victory, but a Jim Custan foul from the Jaguars' side sent Dacalos to the foul line with 15 seconds to go.

Dacalos, however, could only make one free throw to tie the count at 86-all, thus, the extension.

In the extra period, the Webmasters were in full control on the way to score a huge win considering that they’re one of the only two teams that have no foreign player.

Jan Michael Auditor sparkled with 36 points spiked with a booming triple that gave the Webmasters a 97-94 edge. Moments later, rookie guard Clint Suelto made it 99-96 in UC's favor with only 16.8 seconds left.

It appeared that coach Jun Noel's much-emphasized preparation for the Jaguars worked wonders especially when they dictated the tempo for most of the second half, which was delayed by so many physical activities such as body slamming and unnecessary fouls. 

UC, however, had the last laugh.

Dacalos added 14 points while Junas Misa and Suelto had 10 points apiece in a balanced UC attack. Suelto settled the final count  by hitting two free throws with no time left.

Kevin Villafranca paced the Jaguars with 23 points. Iron Suano and James Regalado had 17 and 15 points ,respectively, while rookie guard Mark Labares scored 13 in a losing effort. (FREEMAN)