USPF, Benedicto College notch convincing CESAFI men’s basketball wins

University of Southern Philippines Foundation (USPF) Panthers and Benedicto College (BC) Cheetahs powered to decisive victories during the Cesafi Season 25 basketball tournament at the Cebu Coliseum, September 21.

The Panthers earned its first win of the season with a 68-56 triumph over the University of the Philippines Cebu (UPC). 

Jumping to a 36-21 halftime lead and never trailing, the Panthers used aggressive defense and steady rebounding to keep the Fighting Maroons at bay.

John Paulo Dalumpines of USPC paced with 14 points, seven assists and three rebounds, while Peter John Peteros added eight points to spark the early surge.

Meanwhile, Benedicto College improved to 2-0 after winning against Cebu Institute of Technology-University (CIT-U) Wildcats, 68-51. 

The Cheetahs led 43-33 at halftime and stretched the margin with balanced scoring and crisp ball movement.

Kenneth Babalcon delivered 13 points on a perfect 6-of-6 shooting night, collecting five rebounds, eight assists and two steals to earn Player of the Game honors.

The Panthers and Cheetahs will look to build on their momentum when CESAFI play resumes next weekend. Benedicto College faces the University of Cebu-Main on September 27, while USPF continues its hunt for a winning streak against the Wildcats on September 28.