UC juniors outlast UV to rule Mandaue hoop

The University of Cebu Junior Webmasters threw a solid defensive blanket in the final quarter, then fought with their hearts out when it mattered to outlast the University of the Visayas Baby Lancers, 80-73, and win the championship of the Mandaue Olympics 2017 CESAFI Inter-High School Basketball Tournament last Tuesday night at the Mandaue City Cultural and Sports Complex.

The Junior Webmasters trailed 54-57 after three quarters but suddenly activated their trademark pressure defense to rattle their favored foes. UC made the most out of UV's string of errors to launch a tideturning 8-0 run in the final four minutes of play.

"It's not an easy win but we managed to achieve it because of the big fighting hearts of my boys. They're very disciplined especially on defense and fought until the last second of the game. That made the difference for us," said UC coach Joever 'Brad' Samonte.

Miguelito Jusay led four UC players in double figures with 12 points including a rare four-point play that doused cold water on UV's comneback hopes after pulling within just three points.

"Jusay's four-point play was very crucial. That cushioned us to victory," said Samonte.

Kyle Ruedas and Rovic Angco each scored 11 while John Bryle Cuyos chipped in with 10 markers for the Junior Webmasters, who prevailed in their second straight championship showdown with the Baby Lancers.

Last April, UC also tamed UV in the Cebu leg finals of the Under Armour U18 3x3 basketball tournament at the City Sports Club-Cebu. The Junior Webmasters went on to bag the national title.

Joshua Yerro paced the Baby Lancers with 16 points while Jhiey Paraldo and Justin Jake Rosete scored 13 and 11, respectively, in a losing effort.