MVP Taha, Blazers clinch Quirino Cup

MANILA, Philippines — College of St. Benilde rode finals MVP Paolo Taha’s game-long brilliance and team-high 19 points to down Technological Institute of the Philippines, 86-76, and bag the inaugural Engr. Demetrio Quirino Cup before an overflow crowd at TIP gym in Manila.

Host school TIP, however, found reason to be happy with the result of the month-long tournament.

“We wanted to showcase our school as an active part of the National Collegiate Basketball League and to attract other schools when the NCBL opens its third season next year,” said Quirino.

“The fact that this tournament had both NCAA and UAAP schools, we achieved our modest goals.” Lyceum bested Centro Escolar University, 68-56, to clinch third place.