THE CEBU Landmasters are just a win away from capturing the title in Division A after they defeated the Gaisano Capital, 96–82, in the PLDT SME Nation-Alfredo Gothong 21st SHAABAA Cup Basketball Tournament last weekend at the Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu campus in Canduman, Mandaue City.
The Landmasters took their game to another level in the third as they outhustled, outclassed and outscored Gaisano, 37-24, to turn what was a slim 39-31 lead into a huge 76-55 margin and cruise to the series-opening victory.
Four players scored in double-figures for the Landmasters led by the 19 of former PBA D-League standout Moncrief Rogado. Justin Huang and Daryle Tan had 16 markers each while Kyle Valmoria chipped in 10.
Former Cesafi Rookie of the Year Arc Gabrielle Araw-Araw led Gaisano Capital with 22 points.
The Landmasters will try to wrap things up in Game Two on Wednesday at the same venue.
In the same division, Harley Davidson claimed third place with an 88-72 rout of the Bayfront Hotel Cebu.
Fletcher Galvez scored 26 while Jair Igna pumped in 22 to help Harley Davidson salvage third place.
In Division B, Batch 97 advanced to the finals after they blew away Choobi Bay Crab and Shrimp, 58-43.
Roderick Mangubat scored 18 for Batch 1997 which established a 42-27 lead at the end of three periods and was never threatened until the final buzzer.
However, Batch 1997 will have to wait for a few more days to know who its opponent will be as Dynacast forged a winner-take-all match for the last ticket to the finals with a 62–57 victory over the top-seeded AutoLAB 1999.
John Paul Cabrera led the winners with 23 points.