SBC, Hope dispute Freego cage crown

MANILA, Philippines - San Beda and Hope Christian High School (HCHS) arranged the titular showdown of the fourth FCBL Freego Cup after posting similar wins against their respective semifinal foes Thursday at the Buddhacare Gym.

The defending champion Red Cubs tripped Mapua, 79-67, to enter the finals for the second straight year of the annual high school cagefest also supported by Talk ‘N Text.

HCHS, meanwhile, continued to make waves in the tournament after taming National University, 85-66, and challenges the perennial powerhouse San Beda for the crown.

Hope and San Beda battle for the crown today at 3 p.m. with Freego marketing manager Jennifer Ringor and marketing coordinator Everly Guarte expected to grace the championship game to award the trophies.

Arve Tolentino scattered his 22 points to lead the Red Cubs against the Red Robins and claimed the Freego Player of the Game honor.

Jay Alejandro led Mapua with 22 points to settle for battle for third against the Bullpups in the tournament also backed by Powerbest Mktg Inc., Colt Commercial, Oceanic Container Lines Inc., Old Chinatown Kopitiam, Mandarin Sky Seafood Shabu-Shabu Restaurant, Jumbo Plastic Linoleum, Fresh Gear, Apple Tape and Happe Toothpaste.

HCHS head coach Stevenson Tiu relied on their balanced attack to beat NU and make it to the finals in their first year of participation in the high school cage meet.

Raymond Tan led five HCHS players in double figures with 16 while Rash Rivero was the only NU player in double figures with 13.