MARIANAS and Eastside Cuts each notched their second straight win in the Michelob Ultra Cup 2025 on Saturday at the Gilbert C. Ada Gymnasium.
Marianas, which dismantled Akkari 1 with a 65-34 win, controlled the pace from the opening quarter, showcasing sharp ball movement, solid defensive coverage, and strong team chemistry.
Every Marianas player on the court posed an offensive threat, with Aiferson Atan, Coby Santos, and Ervin Villarin all scoring within the first five minutes. Airson Atan came off the bench to contribute five points, helping push the lead to double digits, 21-6.
The deficit widened in the second period as Akkari 1 struggled to find their rhythm, scoring just six more points.
Meanwhile, Junie Thongaram and Mii Tekopua kept Marianas rolling, contributing six and seven points, respectively, to extend the lead to 38-12 by halftime.
In the second half, Akkari 1 found their second wind. With improved defensive awareness, they created more shot opportunities for Freddie Pelisamen and TJ Factor.
However, Akkari 1 could only soften the blow of defeat, as Marianas’ Jack Lizama, Tekopua, and Santos continued to fire on all cylinders, sealing a blowout victory, 65-34.
Also victorious were the Eastside Cuts/Elite Kuyas who bagged their second straight win by outplaying Unity Trade, 71-62.
Scores:
Marianas 65 – Airson Atan 13, Mii Tekopua 13, Aiferson Atan 10, Junie Thongaram 8, Jack Lizama 7, Coby Santos 6, Jack Aranda 4, Ervin Villarin 4
Akkari 1 34 – TJ Factor 11, Freddie Pelisamen 9, Gino Asauo 5, Harry Lapwich 3, Heman Addy 3, Slymark Defang 3
Marianas’ Mii Tekopua attempts a floater during a game against Akkari 1 in the Michelob Ultra Cup 2025 at the Ada gym on Saturday.
Photo by James F. Sablan Jr.
Akkari 1’s Freddie Pelisamen blocks Marianas’ Ervin Villarin during a Michelob Ultra Cup 2025 game at the Ada gym on Saturday.
Photo by James F. Sablan Jr.
