University of Perpetual Help System DALTA began its preseason preparations for NCAA Season 101 on a high note, capturing the Cam Sur Cup Invitational Basketball Championship title with a 77–73 victory over host team CamSur Express at the Fuerte Sports Complex in Pili, Camarines Sur.
The Altas leaned on their defense in the clutch to secure the win and close out the week-long tournament organized by Armstrong Philippines in cooperation with the provincial government of Camarines Sur, led by Gov. Luigi Villafuerte.
LA Casinillo, who was later named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player, delivered a standout performance with a game-high 23 points to lead the Altas under head coach Olsen Racela.
Former FEU standout Patrick Sleat added 15 points, four rebounds, and two steals, while Mark Gojo Cruz contributed 11 points.
“We’re very happy to win this tournament here in Camarines Sur. This is a good experience for the players as we continue our buildup for NCAA Season 101,” said Racela, who was also named Best Coach of the tournament.
Rufino Sablaon III and Verman Magpantay led the Express with 17 and 14 points, respectively. Jerome Almario and Lloyd Jefferson Borbe added 11 and 10.
Earlier, NAASCU champion St. Clare College of Caloocan secured third place after outlasting the Kuala Lumpur Hornbills of Malaysia, 71–66, in a tightly contested battle.
Justine Bautista led the Saints with 20 points, three rebounds, three steals, and two assists for head coach Jino Manansala.
Joco Bojorcelo added eight points, while 6-foot-10 Sudanese recruit Moses Mandiria finished with seven points, 10 rebounds, and three blocks. Leenard Desabelle and Lex Gazzingan chipped in six points each.
Azbeel Singh Gill led the Hornbills with 24 points and five rebounds. Tan Jian Wei added 13 points, four boards, and two assists, while Lee Yong Ding had 10 points and three rebounds.
