Supportsave, Telstra set up final duel in E-League

CEBU, Philippines – The Supportsave Dragons and Telstra-Teletech Boomerangs finished off separate rivals to set up a best-of-three championship duel for the Evo League title in the 11th CSCC E-League men's basketball tournament last Sunday at the City Sports Club-Cebu gym.

Nino Belande had another stellar double-double show of 20 points and 13 rebounds as Supportsave terminated the Author Solutions, Inc. Hardbacks, 75-66, while Sam Jordan Hermosa glittered with 23 points and 15 rebounds spiked with seven assists, five blocks and three steals to power Telstra to a 68-58 triumph over the Kyocera Frontiers.

Germaine Jo Guarisma churned out 19 points, six assists and four steals for Supportsave, which was in full control of the match after taking a 34-31 lead at halftime.

Armalon Fernandez had 18 points  and eight rebounds in a losing effort for the Hardbacks.

Hermosa, on the other hand, drew huge support from Jasper Diaz with 17 points and 18 rebounds. John Anthony Ares added 11 markers for Telstra, which was also in complete command of the match from start to end.

Ariel Ramonito Edera was the lone bright spot for Kyocera with 23 points, nine rebounds, four assists, three steals and as many blocks.

Aside from the crown, Supportsave and Telstra will also fight for the right to challenge the lottery winner in the Elite Classic. — EBV (FREEMAN)