Filipino-Chinese Veterans Basketball Association launched its title drive on winning note, blasting Asaba of Indonesia, 30-21, in the opening of the ASEAN Veterans Basketball Tournament Monday at Indoor Stadium 3 of Chiang Mai Sports Complex in Chiang Mai, Thailand.
Former Philippine standout Roberto Poblete made his FCVBA debut more memorable by leading the team with 14 points – most of them in the third frame where the Fil-Chinese seniors pulled away for good.
Rain or Shine co-team owner Terry Que also contributed significant numbers by adding eight points and three assists as the Elmer Reyes-mentored FCVBA made known its desire to regain the title it lost last year in Hatyai.
“We hope we can build enough momentum from this win,” said Ironcon Builders owner Jimi Lim, who, along with Que, bankrolled the participation of the association’s 65-and-above team in the annual tournament.
Former Crispa player Joel Gomez did score only two points in five tries but his lone basket pushed FCVBA beyond Asaba’s reach as the Fil-Chinese seniors took a 30-15 advantage with just three minutes remaining.
The rousing opening game win was a fitting gift to former another Crispa player in Bong dela Cruz who turned 67.
Also contributing to FCVBA’s cause were Andrew Ongteco, Achit Kaw, William Lao, Ching Ka Lee, Antonio Go, and MICAA veteran Zotico Tan of Cebu.
FCVBA will go for a two-game sweep of Group B elims when it takes on Sarawak of Malaysia on Thursday.
Comprising Group A are defending champion Hatyai, Pontianak and Zaap – all from host Thailand.
