DAMMAM: The Phuket Restaurateurs clinched their first title with an easy 87-67 victory over Arcon Construction Company in the Open division of the prestigious Eastern Province Basketball League.

Team manager and owner Khwanchai Steve Keekhongderm proudly lifted the championship trophy after his team’s unbeaten run (9-0) in the tournament.

MVP awardee, Anthony Magno, had his usual double-double performance with 10 points and 12 rebounds to lead the Phuket charge with four players in double figures. Lawin Sena and swingman Dante Luete had 14 points apiece, ace defender Alfiel Canete had 11 points while Dante Alipin chipped in with 10 points.

Phuket stamped its dominance early in the first quarter, ran off nine points in a row making it 26-17, on Arnold Arguelles three-point shot, and there was never really a chance for the Arcon team that couldn’t get closer than eight from there.

With former PBL Agfa ace guard, Ramon Hernandez, and playmaker Mark Millena tending the backcourt, Phuket had 23 assists against 14 for Arcon. Jayson Mejia and John Baloloy did their usual support with a combined 11 points off the bench.

Marvin Ruado paced Arcon with a game high 17 points on a 5 of 7 three-point shooting, Jaylord Santos had 15 while big man Gelvys Corvera added 14 points but guard Brian Solis was limited with five points and seven assists.

It was a sweet comeback though for the Thai team, which until last week never got a championship since joining the league in 2003. Phuket rested for almost four years before Keekhongderm built a team with deep, versatile players in capturing the championship.

Meantime, EPBL announced its 27th Season opening on Feb. 21. Interested teams may send email to [email protected] for more details.