Defending champion Koba Shutters subdued Byzmo, 81-69, and Autokid Manila defeated Carbery Group 78-73 in the semi-finals match up of the 7th Grace Alumni Basketball League (GABL) at SGS Stadium, along G. Araneta Ave, Quezon City.

After trailing 15-19 at the end of first quarter, Vincent Dy scored half of his 18 points to lead the defending champions in a second quarter uprising and eventually taking a 35-30 half time lead.

John Vincent Ong then took over after the break, scoring 9 of his game-high 20 points in the 3rd period. It was Edwin Yap’s turn in the pay-off period as he scored 8 of his 12 points in the fourth and deciding period.

Rex Tan led Byzmo with 16 points; it is the first semi-finals appearance for new coach Atty. Max Chua.

GABL and World Balance are partners in strengthening friendship through sports.

In the other semi-finals match, Autokid Manila relied on the hot hand of Sherwin Yao to barge into the finals and face their tormentor in last season’s finals.

Mark Choa and John Paulo Tan scored 19 and 13 points respectively to support Yao’s 21 point output, helping their team to their third straight finals appearance.

Aristotle Chang, Ronald Limsin and Casper Ngo combined for 40 points for Carbery Group.

The event also has the backing of Licton Industial Corp, GCC batch 1978, Bounty Fresh Chicken, Alpha Water Heaters, Great Wall Cars and Grace Christian College.

Former JRU Heavy Bomber head coach Reynaldo “Boy” De Vera is the tournament commissioner. Organized by Sports Committee of Grace Alumni Association, Inc. and Headstart.