UM, STI clash for NAASCU title

MANILA, Philippines - University of Manila and STI overpowered their respective rivals to arrange a showdown for the 10th National Athletic Association of Schools, Colleges and Universities (NAASCU) basketball tournament crown at the Makati Coliseum.

The Hawks routed the Centro-Escolar U Scorpions, 89-61, while the Olympians trounced Informatics International College Icons, 82-48, to set up a best-of-three playoff starting tomorrow.

Alvin Viernes, a 5-7 guard from Isabela, exploded with 22 points while Rhandelle Colina and Eugene Torres scattered 21 and 18 points, respectively, to power UM to victory.

Norman Ihalas, a 5-7 third year guard from Cagayan de Oro, sizzled with 21 points while Abegail Chavez, Cedric Ablaza and Jordan Melano added 15, 13 and 11 points, respectively, to steer the Olympians to the win.