Chiang Kai Shek College, St. Stephen’s High School, and Philippine Cultural College – Manila emerged early leaders in the 7th Baden Powell Cup Basketball Tournament after two days of competition in five different venues.

Defending champion Chiang Kai Shek College, seeking a fifth straight title in the annual tournament, started its campaign with a win in the opening game over Philippine Cultural College – Caloocan. The two teams were in a see-saw battle throughout the first two quarters, with the CKSC Blazing Dragons moving ahead by double digit only on the third quarter after capitalizing on errors made by the PCC Annex Seagulls. From there on, the CKSC Blazing Dragons never looked back and comfortably won the game with a final score of 70-54. The CKSC Blazing Scout Dragons are supported by Steelhaus Manufacturing, New Maxima Tire Supply, Eng Bee Tin, Empire Printing, DC-Trio, Lights and Lamps, and Sing Merchandising.

Also off to a rousing start is St. Stephen’s High School after a squeaker over strong contender Quezon City Christian Academy. The two teams were in a tug-of-war all throughout the game, with both teams still tied at the end of the third quarter, 34-all. The Stephenian Scouts only gained headway in the last minute of the game to edge the QCCA Torchbearers, 46-43.

Also victorious in their opening games were Philippine Cultural College – Manila, which prevailed over last year’s host, Philadelphia High School, 39-31, and former two-time champion Hope Christian High School, which demolished Philippine Pasay Chung Hua Academy, 76-23.

In a battle between opening day winners, the Chiang Kai Shek College Blazing Dragons routed the Hope Christian High School Campers the day after, 67-39, to post its second win in as many games. Philippine Cultural College – Manila also remained unbeaten with an easy win over Pasay Chung Hua Academy, 58-27. Not to be outdone, St. Stephen’s dealt Philippine Cultural College – Caloocan its second straight loss, 47-31. Meanwhile, Quezon City Christian Academy bounced back from a heart-breaking opening day loss with a big win over Philadelphia High School, 80-36.

Schedule of Games: