Triggerman deadly as ever, tows FCVBA

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – Allan Caidic was already being massaged, particularly his weary legs, when the fourth quarter started. That was understandable. After playing for almost three quarters and scoring 18 points, highlighted by two triples, the gunslinger from Paete, Laguna was no longer needed as the 50-years-and-above team of the Filipino-Chinese Veterans Basketball Association (FCVBA) has by then built a massive lead going to the final period.

The team’s second unit also rose to the challenge as the 50s cruised to a 61-37 win over Miri of the host country at the start of the 26th ASEAN Veteran Basketball tournament yesterday at the MABA gym here.

Hobbled but willing, the former University of the East hotshot made the team’s first eight points spiked by a three that set the tone for the team’s auspicious start.

Caidic, 53, got a big help from a former archrival Benet Palad.

The former University of Santo Tomas star who figured in memorable shootouts with Caidic during their cel- ebrated UAAP years in the 80s provided not only the needed firepower but also the strength down low as the Fil-Chinese seniors dominated their rivals. The 65 squad made it a double celebration for the association backed by Rain or Shine’s Terry Que, Freego’s Eduard Tio, Philippine Airlines’ Bong Tan, Ironcon Builders’ Jimi Lim and Johnny Chua when it outlasted Hatyai of Thailand, 44-39.

The win – thanks to the heroics of Zotico Tan, William Lao and former Crispa Redmanizer Bong dela Cruz – shoved FCVBA to the final as only three teams are entered in the division. Host Kuala Lumpur is the third team.

The 60-and-above team – also being handled by Edster Sy – was playing against Kuching at presstime.

Backstopped by former La Salle star Kenneth Yap and former PBA star Elmer Reyes, the 60s are going for a three-peat.