Two-time PBA MVP James Yap, Rhagnee Sinco, and Ken Bono starred in a decisive third-quarter breakaway as Iloilo’s Hua Siong College defeated Xavier School, 72-57, in the rubber match to retain the 40-years division title of the Fil-Chinese Athletic Association Inc. on Friday at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.
Making up for a disappointing nine-point performance in Game 2, where he missed all 11 of his three-point attempts, Yap scored four of his game-high 23 points in the third quarter. Bono and Sinco matched his output during the period, helping turn a tightly contested game into another convincing victory that extended Hua Siong’s reign for another year.
Yap ignited the decisive run by opening the payoff period with a three-pointer, sparking a surge that gave the Lamtex Pipes-backed Hua Siong a commanding 59-43 advantage. From there, the defending champions never looked back.
The Golden Stallions, backed by Powersox and AcroCity, attempted to rally but were quickly thwarted by Yap and company.
(C) FCAAI
Yap also finished with five rebounds and three assists in more than 32 minutes of action, earning Finals MVP honors.
Xavier’s bid was dealt a significant blow by the absence of former Rain or Shine star Chris Tiu, who sat out with a hamstring injury. Without their longtime leader, no one was able to replicate the production Tiu had consistently provided over the years, including his 17-point performance in Xavier’s stunning 75-72 Game 1 victory.
Just like last season, Hua Siong claimed the series, 2-1. It forced a winner-take-all Game 3 after cruising to a 79-49 victory in Game 2.
After being limited to just eight points in the previous game after arriving late, Bono bounced back with 20 points and 16 rebounds, while Sinco and tournament MVP Jaypee Belencion chipped in nine points apiece.
Hounded by Hua Siong’s relentless defense from the opening tip, Joseph Yeo was held to just 12 points on 4-of-20 shooting. Bon Syiaco paced Xavier with 16 points and nine rebounds.
Up next for the league, which is backed by Smart Sports, Tanduay Athletics, Genius Hardware, Ultraforce Tires, Cellboy, PGFlex Linoleum, Boysen, Lamtex Pipes, Jiang Nan, Hangry Pares, Powerhouse Tools, L.F. Fireworks, BYD Valenzuela, BAIC, Jetour, Yong Kee Roasting House, 1118 Autospa, and TCL, is the 45-years division.
