Saint Jude Catholic School halted the 11-game winning streak of Xavier School, taking an impressive 84-62 win in Game 1 of the Philippine Ching Yuen Athletic Association Finals, Thursday at Uno High School.
From the tipoff, it was clear that the Green Knights were on a mission to dominate the game. Xavier School came out strong and took an early lead of 22-15, but a 23-0 run by Saint Jude Catholic School in the second quarter turned the tide of the game. The Golden Stallions never recovered from the onslaught and were completely outplayed.
University of Santo Tomas coach Pido Jarencio, who was supporting Xavier head coach Japs Cuan, had seen enough by the third quarter when the Green Knights were comfortably ahead, 67-44.
Ethan Kaw led the Green Knights with an outstanding 29 points, shooting 13-22 from the field. Tournament leading scorer, Kobe Chong, contributed 20 points and 10 rebounds to secure the win. Enrico Feliciano added 14 points before being sidelined by an injury.
Xavier School struggled to find its rhythm and shot a frigid 26-percent from the field.
Andre Tan led the team with 13 points but only managed to convert 3-18 field goal attempts. Brent Tiu and Marius Guevarra scored 11 and 10 points, respectively.
With 8:31 left in the game, the Green Knights took a commanding 71-44 lead. Angel Ngu’s bucket with 5:47 left gave Saint Jude Catholic School a 76-46 lead, putting the game out of reach for Xavier School.
Game 2 of the finals in the tournament which is backed by NexGen Group of Companies, Milk Magic, Spalding, and Vital Purified Drinking Water is scheduled for Tuesday, February 28, at 6 pm.
The Green Knights are hoping to continue their winning streak and clinch the championship title, while Xavier School is determined to come back stronger and force a Game 3.
