DPU-Sports squad rules Inquirer hoop fest

DIGITAL Processing Unit-Sports bucked a slow start to crush Digital Access Group, 74-55, yesterday and capture the 2015 Inquirer Inter-Color Basketball Tournament title at Barangay Sta. Cruz Gym in Makati City.

Reggie Molleda fired 30 points to come away with Finals MVP honors, while Cedelf Tupas finished with 19 points as DPU-Sports rallied from an early 10-point deficit to regain the crown.

Tournament MVP Genie Lagman tallied eight points, matching Ritchie Sabado’s output for DPU-Sports, which dealt DAG its only defeat of the tournament.

A losing finalist in last year’s tournament, DPU-Sports needed reserve Jerry Ruiz’s strong defensive performance, before finding its groove. DPU dominated the middle quarters, turning a 3-13 deficit to a commanding 54-35 lead heading into the final period.

Also part of the DPU-Sports team were June Navarro, Sonny Cruz, Ely Fugaban, Boy Anicete, Zaldy Alejandrino, Sho Francisco  and Jomar Bernabe.

Giancarlo Amor led DAG with 16 points.

Earlier, Circulation, the 2014 champion, clinched third place by dumping IT Department, 67-58.

Joining Lagman in the mythical five were Tupas, Ever Samson of IT and Circulation’s Godeng Valencia and Bong Viray, while DAG’s Roy Mendiola was named top defensive player.