CJ Cansino and the UP Fighting Maroons during the SBP Invitational Games, a test event for the Fiba World Cup. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines — CJ Cansino and the University of the Philippines Maroons relished the opportunity to help the country in its preparation for its historic hosting of the Fiba World Cup 2023 through the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas Invitational Games
Cansino fired five three points to finish with 19 points, leading the Fighting Maroons’ lopsided 99-62 win over the San Beda Red Lions on Wednesday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The senior guard was thrilled to take part in the simulation to help the SBP and Fiba for the upcoming games at the Big Dome from August 25 to September 5.
“We’re grateful because we were invited to help in this trial run for the upcoming Fiba World Cup. This game gave us a different experience,” he said in Filipino after shooting 5-of-10 from deep to go with five rebounds, two assists, one block, and a steal.
“This is a big help for me especially since I need a lot of games since I’ve been missing the action for almost a year. The court is good and the fans gave us a UAAP-like atmosphere,” added the returning player from a knee injury.
UP Fighting Maroons’ Francis Lopez. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
UP coach Goldwin Monteverde said the event was “very organized and successful.”
“It was very beneficial especially for my young players and the rookies because the atmosphere playing at Araneta is very close to UAAP. It was a very very good experience,” Monteverde said.
The Fighting Maroons showed no mercy against the Red Lions all game long as they led as many as 42 points with three minutes remaining after Reynald Torres’ three-point play, 95-53.
Francis Lopez also shone with 15 points, six rebounds, and two assists. Lowell Briones and Janjan Felicilda had 11 points each, while Sean Alter added 10 markers.
“After winning the FilOil championship, our previous games from other leagues have been a roller coaster ride. So before the game, we talked to each other about the standards and habits of our team. We should follow our standards regardless if it’s an official game or tune-up,” Cansino said.
Jacob Cortez led San Beda with 15 points and seven assists. Yukien Andrada added 14 markers, and James Payosing added 10.
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