Reigning champs Ateneo De Davao University Blue Knights hacked out an 81 - 66 victory over Jose Maria College Kings to begin their title retention bid on a bright note in the 6th Gaisano South Cup Saturday night at the GS Skygym
Miguel Solitaria lived up to his star billing leading the charge for Ateneo which came out strong in the second half to win its first assignment.
The prolific forward Solitaria, last year's regular season Most Valuable Player, poured in 24 points on top of 6 boards, 3 steals and 2 assists that made him the best player of the game.
Richard Madelo, Eric Cabigas and Raphael Claveria also came out big for Ateneo chipping in 16, 12, 10 points respectively.
" We just came out big tonight. The players played hard, " said Blue Knights head coach and GS Cup 2007 coach of the year Pocholo Elegino after the game witnessed by former City councilor April Marie Dayap.
Ahead 43 - 34 after a see-saw first two quarter battle, the Blue Knights went into scoring binge, taking a double digit lead and never looked to seal the victory.
Madelo's three pointer before the shot clock buzzer sounded midway of the third canto notched Ateneo biggest lead of the ball game at 20 points, 61 - 41.
The Kings tried to bounce back in the pay off period cutting the deficit to single digit but just fell short to absorb its first defeat.
Jumabon Bulac top scored for the Kings with 18 points.
In College Division 2 encounter, defending champions Mats College of Technology Navigators also opened its title defense on a right track beating come-backing University of Immaculate Conception Eagles, 110 - 62.
Rhandelle Colina had a double-double performance for Mats. The sweet-shooting Colina scored 20 points and grabbed 12 rebounds.
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