Meralco-Quezon City zooms to Batang PBA lead

MANILA—Defending champion Meralco-Quezon City zapped Derby Ace-Marikina, 79-37, Monday, in a show of dominance that established the squad as a favorite to extend its dynasty in the 2011 Batang PBA Summer League.

Gian Mamuyac spearheaded a strong start by the Batang Bolts in the first period at the San Juan gym, putting the outcome beyond doubt early and clinching for his team the top spot in Group A.

Quezon City is likely to face Manila in the crossover semifinals when the tournament resumes after the PBA All-Star break.

“We see a lot of natural talent (in our team),” said assistant coach Edwin Ancheta, who took over from coach Mark Herrera in the second half because the latter had to rush to  another coaching duty. “Some are as young as 8 years old, and they just keep on getting better.”

Quezon City has won the last four titles of the tournament and is gunning for another sweep despite having only three returnees.

Among the promising new faces is San Beda-Alabang standout Shan Vesagas, who nailed a three-pointer at the buzzer in the first half to cap a Batang Bolts run that quelled a mini uprising by the Batang Llamados.

“I’ve learned the importance of teamwork and how to play good defense in this Meralco team,” said the 11-year-old Vesagas, who twice topscored for the Batang Bolts in their earlier victories.