The Kumpares pose for a group photo after a B Division game of the E-Sports CNMI Invitational Basketball League 2025 at the Koblerville basketball court.
Contributed photo
KUMPARE remains undefeated in the B Division of the E-Sports CNMI Invitational Basketball League 2025, collecting their third consecutive win with a nail-biting 62-60 victory over Seabridge on Saturday at the Gualo Rai Basketball Court.
It was a tightly contested match from start to finish as both teams battled for control.
In the opening quarter, Seabridge excelled on both ends of the court, with Lance Lerio and Kenny Laquian capitalizing on defensive stops and contributing five and four points, respectively. Jun Bas later joined the onslaught with five straight points to establish a commanding 16-7 lead.
Kumpare reassessed their strategy and mounted a defensive comeback in the second period. With tighter coverage, they held Seabridge to just six points. Offensively, Joseph Torres sparked the rally by scoring the first six points, and the rest of the team followed suit, with Mark Demonteverde capping the run with a triple and a layup to seize a 26-22 lead.
The back-and-forth battle continued in the third quarter, with several lead changes. Kumpare leaned on fast-break opportunities led by Jude Tengco and Ricky Taraya to stay competitive. However, Laquian answered with 10 points in the quarter to help Seabridge reclaim a slim 41-39 lead.
In the fourth and final quarter, the action intensified as both teams vied for victory. Lance Lerio, quiet for most of the first half, returned with a vengeance, pouring in 11 points — including two three-pointers — to ignite Seabridge’s offense. Kumpare countered with a balanced attack led by Torres, Frank Ferrer, and Jonathan Broncano, eventually tying the game at 60-all.
With possession and just seconds left on the clock, Kumpare looked to Ferrer, who came up clutch. He blew past his defender at the top of the key, drove to the basket, and finished with a smooth finger roll to seal the 62-60 win.
Also joining the winner’s circle were HBR, who triumphed over Hybrid, 75-57, and Jacob’s, who defeated the Saipan Ballers, 59-42.
Scores:
Kumpare 62 – Joseph Torres 15, Jude Tengco 13, Frank Ferrer 9, Mark Demonteverde 8, Jonathan Broncano 6, Ricky Taraya 4, Ariel Moises 2, James Philips 2, Jayrald Ramos 2
Seabridge 60 – Lance Lerio 16, Keny Laquian 16, Bryan Bernardo 12, Jun Bas 5, Rodmar Diaz 4, Axl Cadag 3, JR Caraig 2, Alvin Fundador 1
