The Tigers practically walked the tightrope before repulsing the Express, 66-62, in their previous encounter in the Governors Cup opener last Feb. 10.
But with FedEx still awaiting the arrival of import Art Long and missing the services of player-on-leave Bong Alvarez, what was expected to be a grudge match turned to be a ghastly rout for Coca-Cola. The Tigers, who narrowly missed the Governors Cup finals, got off to a roaring start over a hapless Express as they gained an early share of the lead with the Talk N Text Phone Pals and the Red Bull Thunder in the mid-season tournament.
Comebacking import Ron Hale logged 20 points while new partner Bryant Basemore tallied 13 points, 12 rebounds, six assists and five blocks to lead the Coca-Cola assault.
So unforgiving were the Tigers that they dealt the Express their worst defeat in the league thus far. Coca-Colas output erased the previous seasons best of 107 scored by Red Bull and Purefoods in the first conference.
The 6-foot-6 Basemore, a product of Fort Hays State with rich experience in playing as import in South America and Europe, made an impressive debut in the local pro league thanks in part in the absence of a worthy rival in the other side.
"I think everyone knew that was not the import-combination FedEx had in mind. I know Art Long. If he were in there, it could have been a different story," said Coca-Cola coach Chot Reyes.
With the 6-foot-9 Long still unaccounted for, FedEx was forced to take in 6-foot-2 Jeremy Robinson for as a substitute.
Robinson, one of Spring Cooking Oils imports in last years ABC Champions Cup, struggled for 12 points.
Coca-Cola started the game with a nine-to-nothing run and closed the first half with a dizzying 26-point run.