By NEILWIN JOSEPH BRAVO and KOII CANARIAS
In one defining sequence in the second quarter, Vince Petdeo Cuajao raced downcourt and scored on a one-handed dunk. Two defenders who chased him just watched in awe. Call it total domination.
That play typified Davao City Durians’ superiority. Too much superiority they can afford to just sit out the second half and still win.
In Monday’s opener, the title-seeking Durians waylaid Mati City 119-61 to kickstart their campaign in the boys secondary basketball of the 2019 Davao Regional Athletic Association (DAVRAA) meet at the University of Southeastern Philippines (USEP) Gym.
Fresh from a title conquest in the 2019 Philippine Collegiate Champions League Under-18 3×3 tournament, the prolific Cuajao exploded for a game-high 24 points to carry the load for the Durians in a breakout game that sent a loud message to the rest of the field.
Jay Bernales scored 15 for the Eagles in a losing cause. Later on Monday, the Durians will meet Davao del Norte Pioneers at 5:30 pm to complete a doubleheader.
The Durians is mentored by the multi-titled Holy Child coaching staff composed of Nestor Sorosa and Roger Rabago. Aside from Cuajao, the rest of the Durians ar HCDC Red Eagles Emeliano Escalera, Aeron Jeswill Awe, James Paolo Manigo, Froilan Tingabngab, Rhude Jay Villaflores, Ralf Bernhard Panto and Rommel Mercado, Jr. Reinforcing the squad are Davao Jones Academy’s Askiah John Echavia, Angelo Paul Escalona and Steven Lee Cordova and Lamb of God Sped Academy’s Miguelito Manuel.
The Durians are bracketed in Group A along with Mati City, Davao del Norte, Davao Oriental, Compostela Valley and Panabo City. Bracket B is composed of Tagum City, Davao del Sur, Island Garden City of Samal, Davao Occidental and Digos City. The top teams after the eliminations advance to the semifinals.
On Tuesday, the Durians will take on Comval Gold at 1:30 pm. The rest of the schedule are on Wednesday against the Davao Oriental Sunrisers at 9:00 am and against Panabo Magnates at 10:30 am on Thursday.
