KCS Computer Specialist-Mandaue got past ARQ Builders Lapu-Lapu via a 77-66 decision in the Chooks-to-Go Pilipinas VisMin Super Cup on Tuesday night at the Alcantara Civic Center in Cebu.
The win improved KCS’s record to 3-1, good for solo second behind undefeated MJAS Zenith-Talisay City, which sports a clean 5-0 mark. ARQ dropped to 2-2.
Gryann Mendoza shone for KCS as he scored 19 points, including a layup that gave his team a 71-62 lead with 2:21 left. Mendoza also grabbed 10 rebounds, issued two assists, and added a steal and three blocks in a stellar all-around effort.
Rhaffy Octobre chipped in 13 points, including a couple of triples that sparked KCS’s breakaway in the fourth canto. The University of the Visayas product also had five boards and three blocks.
Already undermanned due to the suspension of five key players, the Heroes’ job became even tougher after ace point guard and team captain Jerick Cañada limped out of the game in the second period after hurting his leg. He did not return to the ballgame.
Still, the Heroes gave it their all, leading by as much as eight before KCS made its move in the third canto. With its defense forcing ARQ into turnovers, KCS unloaded 10 unanswered points to turn a 36-40 deficit into a 46-40 lead and took a 52-47 lead heading to the last period.
In the final quarter, KCS poured it on with Rhaffy Octobre canning two three-pointers, Solera scoring inside and Mendoza converting a layup to build a 67-55 lead with just 4:06 left.
Despite the win, KCS coach Mike Reyes lamented their lack of ball movement early on.
“We weren’t sharing the ball,” said Reyes. “We wanted to beat three people!”
