Olympus to defend title in A+E

SEA Olympus will try and defend its title in the Architects+Engineers Basketball Club Corporate Cup 2018 against Island Paints tonight in the University of San Carlos (USC) Main Gym.

SEA Olympus had a rough season and ended up as the fourth seed after the eliminations. But the defending title-holder showed its championship form after beating top-seed Dormakaba in the semifinals, 63-61, last weekend.

SEA Olympus was down by 20 points going into the fourth quarter, 29-49. But having three more players compared to an undermanned Dormakba, SEA Olympus rallied in the fourth quarter for the win.

Ayi Armenion had another impressive night with 20 points, seven rebounds and two steals. Bong Gabison poured in 14 markers and grabbed nine rebounds, while Brian Acebedo put up 12 points, five rebounds and a steal.

Ed Macasling led Dormakaba with 21 points, six rebounds, three assists and a steal. Eric Pummer chipped in 14, while Kyle Esbra added 13.

Island Paints, on the other hand, convincingly beat higher seed Fenestram, 82-66, in the other semifinal game.

It was total team effort by Island Paints with five players in double digits. Chester Hinagdanan spearheaded Island Paints’ offense with an impressive performance of 21 points, eight rebounds and a steal. Ralph Catugas added 19, Criz Matunog had 14, Dexsel Caandan chipped in 12 and Michael Judilla scored 10.

Jessie Paradero led Fenestram with 21 points, while Ian Paculba scored 20.

The games will kick off at 6 tonight, with the battle-for-third game between Dormakaba and Fenestram. /