Priority Care’s Bryce Maratita attempts a putback against PSS defenders during the opening game of the 2024 RJ Wine & Liquor Inter-Government/Business Basketball League at the Ada gym on Monday.
Priority Care’s Steve King pulls up for the contested three-point shot during a game against PSS in the 2024 RJ Wine & Liquor Inter-Government/Business Basketball League at the Ada gym on Monday.
PRIORITY Care trounced the defending champion, PSS, 78-59, in the opening game of the 2024 RJ Wine & Liquor Inter-Government/Business Basketball League at the Ada gym on Monday.
In a rematch of last year’s championship game, Priority Care established control of the pace early. With continuous defensive pressure, they allowed PSS just five points in the first 10 minutes of the game.
PSS tried to step up their defensive efforts, but this led to unnecessary fouls, which allowed Priority Care to score 10 points from the charity line and end the first quarter with a commanding lead, 25-5.
After a rough start, PSS tried to get back in the game. Melvin Sakisat, who scored five quick points, acted as a sparkplug as the rest of his teammates led by John Pineda and Maverick Itibus followed suit. But their output was not enough as Priority Care’s Steve King alone delivered 18 points, including four triples, to maintain a significant advantage, 47-26.
The third quarter was PSS’ time to shine as they gradually worked their way back within reach using communication to provide defensive coverage while turning each forced turnover into a made bucket on the other end for an 18-12 run.
However, Priority Care resumed their dominance in the fourth and final quarter with King picking up where he left off, but, this time, with the support of Tyson Elameto, Marvin Rabauliman, Justice Aldan, and Ray Agulto, who contributed crucial buckets to secure the win, 78-59.
Scores
Priority Care 78 – Steve King 42, Justice Aldan 10, Ray Agulto 9, Marvin Rabauliman 9, Tyson Elameto 6, Bryce Maratita 2
PSS 59 – Melvin Sakisat 17, Mii Tekopua 16, John Pineda 9, Maverick Itibus 5, Tyrik Basa 2, Ed Guinto 2, Ben Jones 2, Reginald Pascual 2, Peter Mendiola 2, Walter Mendez 2
