ZAMBOANGA Valientes nipped the Zamboanga Sibugay Warriors, 87-86, to capture the Pilipinas VisMin Super Cup 25U Championship over the weekend at the Centralli Sports and Events Complex in Zamboanga City. jc lucia
Emilio Aguinaldo College team captain JC Luciano scored two pressure-packed free throws in the dying seconds to clinch the title for the Valientes.
Luciano was fouled by Kevin Dinglasa, and the EAC stalwart rose to the occasion by sinking both foul shots.
See: After 3x3 stint, Zamboanga Valientes to join ABL Invitational
“That was an exciting finish. Although we’re down, we didn’t give up, that’s why we are proud of them,” Zamboanga Valientes coach Bobedick delos Santos said. “I am very proud of each one of my players for making history as the first champion of VisMin 25U Championship.”
Philip Job Alcantara led the Valientes with 23 points, two rebounds, five assists, and three steals and was adjudged as Finals MVP.
The victory was payback time for the Valientes, who lost to Sibugay in their first meeting.
Among the teams which competed in the tournament aside from the Valientes and Sibugay Warriors were Isabela Basilan Pirates and Misor Mariners RCC.
Team owner Rolando Junnie Navarro congratulated his team, saying the Valientes just proved themselves ready for bigger competitions.
“Congratulations to the team for winning the tournament 25U championship. It only means that we are ready to compete in higher level of basketball competitions,” Navarro said.
Navarro earlier announced the Valientes are joining the ASEAN Basketball League (ABL) Invitational Cup on January 2.
Zamboanga Valientes CEO Cory Navarro and Mike Venezuela of MLV Accounting are also proud of their 25U squad, while also thanking Zamboanga City Mayor John Dalipe, Vice Mayor Pinpin Pareja, and Congressman Khymer Olaso.
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