Xavier forges decider against Hope

XAVIER School, drawing another stellar performance from Kyles Lao, outclassed Hope Christian High School, 80-74, to force a knockout match in the 43rd Metro Manila Tiong Lian Basketball Association-BonChon Chicken juniors championship Monday at Chiang Kai Shek College gym.

The 6-foot Lao exploded for 31 points as the Golden Stallions inched closer to duplicating their feat two years ago when they rebounded from an opening game loss to the Hope Christians to win the title.

Lao, who knocked in 33 points in a 74-66 loss in Game 1, went 9-of-16 from the field, aside from making all his 13 charities.

He also had six assists, five boards and a steal to pick up his seventh BonChon Chicken Player of the Game award.

Game 3 of the best-of-three series will be held tomorrow at the same venue.