Ngermid Rivals are making a statement that they are a team to watch as they clamp down on the WCC Hammers, 96-84, Wednesday night in the ongoing elimination round of the 2014 IP&E National Basketball League (NBL) played at the Palau National gym.

The Rivals were red hot as they established a 26-19 lead in the opening quarter and then continued their run as they spurted a 24-17 run in the second to close the first half of play with a 50-36 advantage.

From there the Rivals were consistent in their plays as they took the win with Vincent Kulas leading the way finishing with 24 points as teammates King Ngiraboi, Marvic Ngchar and Ody Yalap chipped in 20, 19 and 16 markers, respectively.

On the other hand, Chevron Melus topscored for the Hammers with 18 as Mike Williams, Bradon Harvey and Anthony Ngirkelau added 16, 15 and 14 on the losing end, in that order.

In other games, Medalaii Meda Boyz won over Surangel Kings, 88-82; Ngaraard Red Torch bested the Breakers, 85-66; and Peched Raw defeated the Ranchers, 92-67.

Games resume tonight with Matakui versus Meda Boyz at 7 p.m. while Ngaraard Red Torch will play Ngermid Rivals in the main game at 8:30 p.m.

No games will be played on Monday in celebration of the Senior Citizen’s Day. Games will then on May 6 at the same venue.

The tournament, which is supervised by the Palau Basketball Federation (PBF), is a tobacco, alcohol and drug free program. For more information call Topps at 488-4491. By Peter Erick L. Magbanua (Island Times News)