HBR put on a scoring clinic at the Koblerville Basketball Court as they cruised past Seabridge, 90–56, in a Bracket B game of the E-Sports CNMI Invitational Basketball League 2025 held Wednesday night.
HBR wasted no time asserting their dominance. Anchored by their defensive efforts, their suffocating pressure left Seabridge struggling to find a rhythm and instead committing a handful of turnovers, which HBR capitalized on with easy fast-break opportunities. Sean Licayan and Brian Natividad led the offensive transition with 10 and 11 points, respectively, while JR Galang and Dhey Quiambao excelled inside the perimeter to build a commanding double-digit lead after 10 minutes of play.
For Seabridge, it was a tough night offensively. Despite bursts of energy from key players like Lance Lerio and Bryan Bernardo, the team could not sustain momentum against HBR’s relentless pressure. Several promising possessions were cut short by unforced errors, and missed opportunities in the paint allowed HBR to widen the gap going into the halftime break, 51–24.
HBR’s balanced attack saw multiple players contribute on the scoreboard throughout the second half. Good ball movement, complemented by crisp passing, created high-percentage shots, with Jeff Yugummang and Jomer Lazatin joining the assault. Meanwhile, their defensive rotations continued to force turnovers and disrupt Seabridge’s set plays.
Seabridge fell further behind as the game progressed. Lerio’s productivity was shut down, forcing the likes of Zett Aloyzo and Kenny Laquian to step up in his absence. Despite their efforts, the performance mirrored that of the first half, as HBR pulled away and ultimately sealed the win by maintaining the 34-point advantage through the final buzzer, 90–56.
Kumpare vs Hybrid
Joining the winner’s circle was the undefeated Kumpare, who snagged their fifth straight win over Hybrid, 87–69.
Kumpare held a 40–22 lead at halftime, fueled by aggressive defense and efficient shooting. Hybrid fought back in the second half, finding more rhythm offensively, but Kumpare’s balanced scoring and control of the boards kept the gap comfortable.
Key contributions came from Kumpare’s deep rotation, as multiple players stepped up in scoring while maintaining high energy on defense. Hybrid showed flashes of brilliance, particularly late in the second half, but could not overcome the early deficit, eventually accepting defeat at the hands of Kumpare.
The Kumpares pose for a photo after earning their fifth consecutive win to remain undefeated in Bracket B of the E-Sports CNMI Invitational Basketball League 2025 at the Koblerville basketball court on Wednesday night.
Contributed photo
HBR’s Sean Licayan rises up for the uncontested finish during a game against Seabridge in Bracket B of the E-Sports CNMI Invitational Basketball League 2025 at the Koblerville basketball court on Wednesday night.
Photo by James F. Sablan Jr.
HBR’s Brian Natividad takes the open three-point shot during a game against Seabridge in Bracket B of the E-Sports CNMI Invitational Basketball League 2025 at the Koblerville basketball court on Wednesday night.
Photo by James F. Sablan Jr.
