Sta. Clarita Primes trounce San Agustin in NBTC-Iloilo Quarterfinals

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

The Santa Clarita Primes took down University of San Agustin, 92-79, in their quarterfinal clash of the National Basketball Training Center (NBTC) Iloilo leg.

Sta. Clarita’s size and experience advantage proved to be the difference-maker as they started to pull away in the final quarter.

The Primes’ suffocating full-court pressure allowed them to widen the margin and gave them the much-needed momentum shift.

In the first half, San Agustin played tremendous pick-and-roll offense led by John Michael Vicencio and Agapito Clarito who connected for numerous scores underneath.

Leading by 1 at the half, 43-42, coach Rodel Camacho of the Primes adjusted his defense and started to apply pressure the whole second half that favored Sta. Clarita.

The pressure applied was the reason for the numerous steals leading to easy deuces for Sta. Clarita.

Kim Servano and YanYan Nahine played big time for the Primes as they led their team offensively, while Jemar Cepriano provided the defensive presence and the rebounding they needed.