Sonics on a roll in Rotary caging
Reporter
The Sonics stretched their winning streak to five after defeating the Rollers 2, 60-55, in their U19 division game in the 2011 Saipan Rotary Club Youth Basketball League last Monday at the TSL Sports Complex.
The victory solidified the Sonics’ hold on the top spot in the eight-team field. They have yet to drop a match since losing in the season opener to the defending champions Ol’Aces. The Rollers 2 fell to an even 3-3 slate and sits a game behind second-ranked Hi-5 (3-2) in the standings.
The Rollers 2 absorbed its third loss despite taking a 16-11 lead in the opening eight minutes. Lester Vertudez scored six points for Rollers 2, which connected two triples early in the game.
The Sonics then rallied back in the second quarter and took a two-possession lead at halftime, 27-23. Melvin Cadiang led the recovery, nailing six markers in that period.
The Sonics protected the driver’s seat in the third period after playing good defense and consistent offense. Nevin Salem fired six early points in the third quarter, which ended with the Sonics already on top by six, 43-37.
The Rollers tried to mount a comeback with a couple of treys at crunch time, but the Sonics’ defenders held strong in the clutch. The Sonics also buried five free throws in the closing minutes to secure the victory.
Cadiang and Bryl Alegre finished in double figures for the Sonics with10 points apiece, while Rodney Sacramento led the Rollers 2 with 13.
Mandatory meeting tomorrow
Meanwhile, U19 coaches or team representatives are required to attend an organizational meeting at the TSL Sports Complex scheduled immediately following tomorrow ‘s game. Age eligibility requirements and entrance fee submissions will be discussed at the meeting.
Before the meeting, Kagman (2-2) will take on the Chalan Kanoa Blazers (2-3) at the 5pm tussle.
Sonics 60 – Alegre 10, Cadiang 10, De Guzman 8, Caro 7, Aranda 6, Salem 6, Salas 5, Palacios 4, Ecalnea 2, Tudela 1.
Rollers 2 55 – Sacramento13, Metran 12, Vertudez 12, DL Guerrero 6, Iglecias 5, Maranan 3, Danas 2.
Scoring by quarters: 11-16, 27-23, 43-37, 60-55.