THE REIGNING Cesafi men’s champions University of San Carlos Warriors and the Cebu Institute of Technology-University Wildcats debuted with victories at the start of the 1st Barangay Tabunok Inter-Collegiate Basketball League on Sunday at the Tabunok Sports Complex in Talisay.
The Warriors upended the University of San Jose-Recoletos (USJ-R) Jaguars, 79-72, behind the hot shooting of veteran wingman Ian Ortega, who scored 24 points.
Ian Tagapan was also a key cog in the victory as he tallied 18.
The Jaguars, on the other hand, were led by the 20 of Tricky Peromingan, the 13 of Miguel Gastador and the 12 of last year’s Mythical Five forward RJ Dinolan.
In the first game of the double-header, the Wildcats beat the University of Southern Philippines Foundation (USPF) Panthers, 87-77.
Ironically, former USP-F great James Ferraren was the biggest difference-maker for the Wildcats’ victory as he debuted for his new team with 19 points. Joshua dela Cerna added 16.
The tournament is made possible by the efforts of Tabunok barangay captain, Maning Cabriana along with the help of the barangay council.