08/11/2023
In a thrilling display of sportsmanship and determination, John Herben Linares of Arbor Boljoon, Cebu, emerged as the standout player in the game. His remarkable feat as a rookie was evident as he led the team to a resounding 73-59 victory against the USJR Jaguars in the 23rd CESAFI men's basketball tournament last Tuesday, November 7, at the Cebu Coliseum. Linares showcased exceptional skills and unwavering composure, making a significant impact on the team's success.
UC ROOKIE LINARES STEPS UP BIG TIME
He may just be a rookie player but he is very well capable of executing veteran moves when it mattered most for the UC Webmasters.
John Herben Linares exactly did that in their 73-59 whacking of the USJ-R Jaguars in the 23rd CESAFI men's basketball tournament last Tuesday, November 7, at the Cebu Coliseum.
The well-rounded guard from the municipality of Boljoon in southern Cebu sank four 3-pointers of his 16 points laced with six rebounds, two steals, and two blocks to help the Webmasters extend their amazing streak to 8-0, by far their best ever start since the league's inception in 2000.
Linares stepping up big time was very timely as the Webmasters had to shrug off a cold start and overcome the ejection of their head coach Atty. Kenneth Kernn Atilano Sesante after a rare outburst at an official early in the second half.
Banking on Linares hot hands with huge support from the likes of Joseph Nalos, Maverick Eligoyo and Roosevelt Jellianggao, the Webmasters bravely overturned a 26-34 deficit at halftime into a 14-point rout of the Jaguars.
"They stepped up after the ejection kay they know that I would do anything to protect them. I wanted the referees to know that it was really a bad call," coach Kernn said.