HUA Siong College of Iloilo Red Phoenix ruled the Bingawan Foundation Cup Preseason High School Basketball tournament with a 90-71 win over St. Robert’s International Academy Panda Rockets at the gym in Bingawan, Iloilo.
Reynold Tupas, who was adjudged the tournament and Finals Most Valuable Player and Best Point Guard, led Hua Siong with 25 points. Lee Yanzi Jimera added 18 markers.
“Coach told me to step up my game since four of our players from last year already left,” said Tupas. “What is important for us is the championship, iyong individual awards bonus na lang iyon.”
Tupas’ teammate Reneil Gamboa was also named part of the mythical selection while Paolo Villariza was handed the Best in Sportsmanship award.
Hua Siong waxed hot early in the Tuesday finals with conversions from Tupas to build a double-digit lead, which grew to as high as 20 points in the second half with Jimera also contributing on offense.
“I am glad the players were able to adjust quickly after the departure of our players to Manila,” said Hua Siong head coach Vincent Conlu. “Our experience during the Palarong Pambansa also helped Reynold and Lee to pick up the scoring chores.”
On the other hand, Hercor College Junior Jaguars banked on the towering presence of mythical team member Raffy Arguelles to bag the third place trophy with a 92-55 win over University of San Agustin Golden Eagles.
In the exhibition match, University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers displayed its much-improved system under head coach Aldin Ayo as it defeated Hercor College Jaguars./PN
