PGBL: San Mateo Spurs step up title defense

MANILA, Philippines—Defending champion San Mateo Spurs and Charlie’s Dymons hurdled their respective foes to seize the solo lead at the start of the second round elimination of the PSA Pakitang Gilas Basketball League Wllie Caballes Cup at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum Monday night.

The Spurs, who topped the first ever edition of this event held in honor of the late Manila Bulletin assistant sports editor Willie Caballes, whipped up a fourth quarter storm to turn back the pesky Antonov Vodka Smileys, 82-68, and nail their third straight win after dropping their opening day assignment.

The Dymons leaned on reigning MVP Teteng Masigan and PBA resident photographer Nuki Sabio to beat the Powerade Tigerscribes, 59-50, join the Spurs at the helm with identical 3-1 (win-loss) records.

Eric Uy paced San Mateo, which is backed by Publicity/Relationship Building Communications, Inc., with 20 points.

The event is sanctioned by the PSA, presented by the PSC and backed by San Miguel Corp., ACCEL, Powerade and Gatorade.