| Fadhil Yunus |
EASYWAY began their title defence in the MK Group Cup with an easy 137-31 win over BBA in a lopsided affair at the Brunei Basketball Association (BBA) Court in Batu Bersurat last night.
Easyway imports got off to a perfect start with the free-scoring Justin Howard clocking a game high of 38 points while Avery Scharer contributed with 23 points and Geve Leones put in a shift with 17 points.
The defending champions were never threatened at any point of the game after cruising to an unstoppable 73-8 by the end of the second quarter and 100-17 in the third quarter.
Easyway gained an astonishing 100-point lead by the midway point of the fourth quarter.
The reigning holders are favourites to retain the title this year but they face stern test against the likes of Juramas and YTE Morsjaya both of whom are expected to mount a serious tilt.
Easyway stormed to the top of Group ‘A’ with a resounding victory which also feature Street Roc, CK & Associates and Em Prez Sdn Bhd.
In Group ‘B’, title contenders Juramas and YTE Morsjaya got off and running with huge victories and both sides are expected to challenge for the top two spots.
The second match of the night saw CK & Associates take on Street Roc.
The three-week long tournament continue tonight with Tutong Basketball and Walltique Sdn Bhd looking for their first win of the tournament while YTE Morsjaya will be hoping to step up the pressure to group rivals Juramas with a win over Hainan.
YTE Morsjaya head coach Arnel Caringal will also be hoping for improvements in defence with a much-anticipated tie against Juramas fast looming.
The head coach is happy with his offence with a number of three-point shooters in their disposal but exhibited some concerns after letting Walltique to expose their defence.