CCBI overcomes Philhealth scare to stay unbeaten in Corporate hoop
The Chamber of Customs Brokers, Inc. (CCBI) rode on crucial baskets by Daniel Enriquez and Gilbert Real to escape with a 97-94 victory over PhilHealth in the HoopStars Corporate League at the J Centre Mall rooftop gym along A.S. Fortuna Street in Mandaue City.
PhilHealth has at least three former varsity players in its lineup in Michael Cenabre, Randy Pogoy and Marlon Demape, but they proved no match for their CCBI counterparts who are working as customs brokers' processors and office personnel.
Enriquez scattered 16 points as CCBI firmed up its grip of the overall lead with an immaculate 4-0 slate.
A clutch jumper and another big shot by Real proved to be the turning point for CCBI's win, even as Kenneth Kern Sesante also made a huge impact with his 14-point finish.
Real chipped in 12 markers, while Tata Laborte and Ramil Aninon combined for 21 points underscoring CCBI's balanced offensive.
With PhilHealth down, there are only two more opponents left for CCBI to worry about - the 3-0 Albert Surplus led by Dexter Caballero and Innodata, which is among the top contenders in their group.
They maybe the tournament favorite, but the best is yet to come for CCBI until they will finally win the title. With UC coaching staff member Caleb Gawangon calling the shots, they also have the full support of team owner Ding Abay-abay and Rady Abarintos.
The scores
CCBI (97) - Enriquez 16, Sesante 14, Real 12, Laborte 11, Aninon 10, B. Medalle 9, Moral 7, Rollon 4, Elloren 4, Abellana 4, Palero 2, Maningo 2, Villaronza 2
PhilHealth (94) - Arco 23, Cenabre 15, Pogoy 14, Demape 11, Quinanola 11, Campos 7, Sasing 6, Ramas 3, Yap 2 — Gabby G. Malagar