By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
After the 2022 Chairman’s Cup, team Elite Lab TOTO-TIA-TEN/XYZ showed they are still the kings of Iloilo basketball after winning their second-straight championship in the JB Amateur Basketball League (JB ABL) Season II Elite Division in Iloilo City.
The talented group of kids mentored by head coach John Guanco took down the veteran-filled team of Systemic Farm Chemicals, 91-57, in the grand finals of the tournament.
Elite Lab earned a twice-to-beat edge over Systemic as they are the only team in JB ABL Season II with an unblemished record of 6 wins, no losses.
It was a pure basketball clinic for the Guanco-mentored hoopers after immediately taking control of the pace as early as the first quarter.
Systemic’s closest distance was when they cut the lead to 12-10, courtesy of two-straight three-pointers from veteran Edu Allado.
Aside from Allado’s point production, Systemic’s Gus Denila also provided some offensive spark but wasn’t enough to pull them closer.
Elite Lab then quickly responded with their own offensive run spearheaded by a hot RJ Pantin who dropped a game-high 21 points including the JB ABL Finals MVP award.
Pantin received a one-night good for two stay at the Tely’s Bed and Breakfast Hotel, a free dinner from Stella PH, cash prize, and a pair of new shoes from JB ABL.
“At last, after how many lockdowns and threats from the virus, natapos na gd man ang liga ta sang manami kag matawhay. To all Ilonggo ballers, this is just the start. JB ABL will keep on giving you all quality games and make sure gd namon Ilonggo talent will stand out. Be ready, may Season III pa!” said JB ABL commissioner and founder Jayphet Balbacal during an exclusive interview with the Daily Guardian.
JB ABL Elite division season II was brought to you by Wilson Sports PH, Blackwater, Shft Vape Iloilo, TUF Barber Shop, and Tely’s Bed and Breakfast.
