Team Kabong and Ranchers got the upper hand after besting separate rivals in the playoff round of the 2012 season of the IP&E Amateur Basketball League (ABL) at the Palau National gym.

Kabong showed its youthfulness and speed as they routed Palau Pacific Resort (PPR) Shark Attack, 84-67. Kabong outclassed the Shark Attack after closing the first half with a 51-38 advantage. From there, Kabong maintained its lead as they went to score the win and take a 1-0 lead in their playoff series.

Jason Seid topscored for Kabong with 23 baskets while Mesikt Benjamine tallied 18 for PPR Shark Attack on the losing end.

On the other hand, Ferris Baulechong finished with 16 points as he led the Ranchers past the Dngeronger Bullets, 74-66. After taking a 23-11 lead the Ranchers went all the way to win the game and also take a 1-0 advantage in their own series. Raul Osias topbilled for the Bullets finishing with 30 markers on the losing end.

In other games, Ikelauans won over B.O.G., 67-65; Surangel Kings defeated Ngerkesoaol, 94-91; Breakers bested Stingers, 104-62; Nationals beat Ngermid Rivals, 78-72; 4x4 Wheelers outpaced Mesang Red Storm, 75-66; and Spoilers downed Aqua Smooth, 83-71.

Games resume tonight with Nationals versus Ngermid Rivals at 6 p.m. followed by the Breakers-Stingers tussle at 7:30 p.m. while PCC Mesekiu will meet Airwaves at 9 p.m. Monday night games will have Ngerkesoaol against Surangel Kings at 6 p.m. as PPR Shark Attack meets Kabong anew at 7:30 p.m. and Dngeronger Bullets plays Ranchers at 9 p.m.

The playoffs will be a best of three games format with the winners advancing to the next round. The tournament is a tobacco, alcohol and drug free program. All violators will be banned from participating. For more information call Topps at 488-4491.  By Peter Erick L. Magbanua (Island Times News)