The West Negros College junior boys' squad opened its bid with an 83-70 victory over Holy Child School of Davao yesterday in the Philippine Basketball Federation Inc. National Students Basketball Championships at the Emilio Aguinaldo College Gym in Taft Avenue.

After establishing a 23-18 lead at the end of the opening quarter, the Baby Mustangs relinquished their advantage in the second period to trail 46-51 at halftime before getting back on track in the third frame.

Led by the defense of Jophel Garrido in the shaded area, the WNC cagers forced their HCS rivals to turnovers in the third quarter that translated to easy baskets giving them a 67-60 buffer entering the payoff period.

Michael Noble spearheaded the Wesnecans' offensive attack as he exploded for 31 points, while Michael Cepriano scored 9 of his 15 markers from the three-point area to backstop Noble. Point guard Michael Jardiolin contributed 11 points for the Baby Mustangs.

After the impressive triumph, West Negros coach Dennis "Jack" Tumayan yesterday expressed satisfaction on his squad's performance.

"The boys really played well. We are very happy that we won our first game because it will strengthen the team's morale as the tournament goes on," Tumayan told the DAILY STAR.

The Baby Mustangs, reigning Negros Occidental Private Schools Sports, Cultural and Educational Association titlist in the secondary boys' basketball hostilities, will take on De La Salle-Zobel at 9:30 a.m. today.

Also composing the WNC squad are skipper Jay Uy, Roland Ong, Mark Mancera, Froilan Ditchon, Patrick Lizares, Rodelio Malinao, Vince Cellado and Cedric Tizon.*CIT

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