Talisay sets up title duel against Minglanilla

Talisay Aksyon Agad returned the favor on Sidlak Carcar. And they did it in style. Stung by the 77-83 loss in their previous match, the twiceto-beat Talisaynons summoned all the strength they could muster playing before their home fans to annihilate Carcar, 96-70, in their sudden-death duel and march into the finals of the Rhea Gullas Cup 2024 First District of Cebu Inter-City/Municipality Basketball Tournament on Sunday night, March 3, at the Talisay City Sports Complex.

John Mark Lasola fired 28 points on top of four rebounds, three assists, and six steals, while Tracy Imbong dished out a spectacular double-double show of 19 points and 15 rebounds laced with three steals and four blocks as Talisay arranged a best-of-three championship showdown with Abante Minglanilla starting this weekend.

Minglanila earlier advanced after knocking out Naga Atong Garbo.

Drawing extra strength from the fervent cheers of their supporters, the Talisay ballers surged to an early 28-17 lead, which they stretched to a 28-point bulge, 60-32, at the break.

It was cruise control for the Aksyon Agad brigade from there onwards.

Kristian Henry Alejandro also figured prominently for Talisay with 18 points, four rebounds, three assists, and four steals.

Woe to the Carcaranons, they were caught at their worst form against a rival that were at their best.

Julius Tipon, who charted a triple-double in their upset of Talisay, was clamped down to only 10 points, seven rebounds, and three assists this time.

Adrian Cabalida had 12 points, three rebounds, and two steals for the ousted Carcar.