KOBE Paras showed the way as University of the Philippines defeated Chien Hsin University of Science and Technology, 97-93, to rule the 2019 Buddha's Light International Association Cup on Sunday in Kaohsiung.
The second-generation star scored 15 of his 37 points in the fourth quarter, including the rim-rattling one-handed flush to make it 94-83 with 1:27 to play.
UCH still threatened to close in within three, 94-91, with 37.8 remaining, but Jaybie Mantilla and Paras canned their freebies in the clutch to keep the hosts at bay.
UP became the second Philippine school to rule the BLIA Cup after La Salle claimed the crown in 2017.
Paras also had nine rebounds, and two blocks in the win, where he was later on named as the Tournament MVP.
Reigning UAAP MVP Bright Akhuetie was as solid in the conquest with his monster double-double of 22 points, 20 rebounds, four rejections, and three assists.
Team captain Jun Manzo got 15 points, two boards, and two dimes, as Mantilla and James Spencer combined for 18.
The Fighting Maroons swept the invitational tourney, going 5-0 in their campaign in Taiwan.
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