UAAP rivals Troy Rosario and Mac Belo joined forces anew as the frontline pair led the Gilas Cadets to a breezy 108-84 victory over Malaysia to open their 2016 SEABA Stankovic Cup campaign on a high note, Sunday evening in Thailand.
Rosario led the Philippines with 19 points, most of which coming in the first half where the Cadets opened a 12 point cushion to set the tone early.
The Talk ‘N Text rookie also added eight boards to his name missing all but one of his nine attempts from the field.
Belo meanwhile led a spirited third quarter attack to pull away from the tough fighting Malaysians for good. Belo finished with 16 points and like Rosario, the reigning UAAP Finals Most Valuable Player also had an efficient night, making six of his seven shots.
Tolomia finished with 13 points and four assists, Kevin Ferrer had a quiet 12 points while Jalalon finished with 10 points, nine rebounds, three assists and three steals. Jose wounded up with nine points and 15 rebounds.
After a brief break yesterday, the Philippines will now turn its attention to Singapore today. (Christian Jacinto)