By James Sablan
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Variety News Staff
CHCC remained in the top five of the 2026 Priority Care Inter Business/Government League standings after rallying in the second half to defeat CPA, 77-56, Tuesday night at the Gilbert C. Ada Gymnasium.
The first half was a defensive battle, with CHCC holding a slim lead.
CHCC set the tone early, with Patrick Fitial opening the scoring with a 3-pointer and a midrange basket. Tristan Montes then took over, scoring 10 points in the opening quarter. CPA’s Michael Mancao countered with nine points, including an and-one play, to keep his team within striking distance, 21-18.
The second period remained tightly contested, with both teams trading baskets. CHCC’s James Phillips, John James Taman, and Sean Apasan contributed offensively, while CPA got support from Michael Yap and Roy Norita Jr. to stay within one possession, 34-33, at halftime.
CPA, however, struggled to maintain its efficiency in the second half. As Mancao showed signs of fatigue, the rest of the team was unable to compensate offensively. CHCC took advantage, capitalizing on missed opportunities with easy baskets, as Mike Ito and Jawn Joyner helped extend the lead to 53-46 by the end of the third quarter.
CHCC pulled away in the fourth quarter behind Apasan, who scored 12 straight points to help seal the double-digit victory, 77-56.
Priority Care vs Tan Holdings
In the second game, Priority Care stayed unbeaten after a 117-100 win over Tan Holdings.
Priority Care set a fast pace early, jumping to a 25-19 lead in the first quarter and eventually building a double-digit advantage. Although Tan Holdings found its rhythm in the second half, Priority Care responded each time to maintain control and secure the victory.
James Sablan has been a sports reporter for Variety since 2013. He was a liberal arts student of Northern Marianas College and covers all local sports.
