Cubs whip Xavier, bag PSSBC crown

MANILA, Philippines - San Beda College re-staked its claim as the best high school squad in the country as it overpowered Xavier School, 89-59, to capture the third Philippine Secondary Schools Basketball Championship-Ironcon Builders Cup crown at the Chiang Kai Shek College Gym in Tondo, Manila over the weekend.

Displaying the form and toughness in winning their sixth straight and record 21st overall NCAA title last month, the Red Cubs dominated the Stallions from start to finish and went on to turn the finals into a virtual workout.

The Red Cubs raced to a 25-12 lead after the first 10 minutes then pulled away at 41-19 en route to the lopsided win, which disappointed the big crowd that braced for a fierce battle after Xavier came through with big wins over fancied CKSC and reigning UAAP champion National University to gain a crack at the crown.

Andrei Caracut and Chami Diputado keyed San Beda’s big start before Kenneth Alas joined the scoring spree. Alas’ jumper gave them their biggest lead at 81-45.

The Red Cubs shot an impressive 59 percent from the field (29-of-49) and also dominated the boards, 52-29. The team also displayed better teamwork with its 22 assists, doubling the Stallions’ effort.

Caracut, who shared the scoring honors with Diputado, emerged as the Finals MVP. He also had 12 boards and four assists.

Tyler Tio carried the fight for the Golden Stallions with 15 points but got little support from the rest of the squad.

“Hats off to San Beda because it proved to be this year’s best team. As for our team, we will try again to be in the finals and hopefully win next year,” said Tio.

Earlier, the Bullpups upended the FEU Baby Tamaraws, 63-59, to claim third place in the tournament also sponsored by Blackwater-Ever Bilena, Freego, Rain or Shine, Dickies Underwear, Hapee Toothpaste, Jumbo Plastic Linoleum and MEC Computers.

PSSBC chairman Jimi Lim along with commissioner Ato Badolato and NCAA Mancom chairman Paul Supan of host Jose Rizal University were on hand to award the championship trophy to San Beda plus a P50,000 check.

Aside from Caracut and Tio, also making it to the Mythical Selection were JV Gallego of CKSC, Jollo Go of Hope Christian HS, Darius Estrella of JRU, Denniel Aguirre of Mapua, Chris Fajarito of FEU and Mark Dyke of NU.