WHEN IT COMES to the collegiate MLBB scene, teams like Lyceum and De La Salle University's Viridis Arcus are considered to be powerhouses given the accolades that they've achieved in other tournaments. The latter even had players that once played in the MPL scene, and with them entering the UAAP, perhaps they are the favorites to win it all.
But to everyone's surprise, an unlikely hero emerged. No one would've expected the University of the East's Zenith Warriors to end up in the finale of the first UAAP MLBB finals.
And in the grand finale, they produced one of the most shocking outcomes in the scene as they swept the University of Sto. Tomas' Teletigers, 2-0.
As they bring home the gold medal, John Lawrence Chavez, secured the finals MVP trophy.
Ruthless aggression
UE had one player on their target list as they banned majority of Wayne Edward Valentino's jungle pool. It may seem like he has no other options left, yet he still managed to find other alternatives as seen with his Roger and Guinevere picks.
Valentino had a stellar Game 1 as his Roger became a pest in most teamfights and being able to sneak his way to kill Elijah Mark Vilaray would give the Teletigers the advantage in teamfights.
However UE had the blessing of their finals MVP Chavez. His midlane presence would simply command the game.
In Game 1, the sustain he brings with his Faramis pick would force a massive dilemma for the Teletigers who had no choice but to wait for his Cult Altar play to expire. Chavez was able to time his abilities well, which gave UST a difficult time to engage.
The 2nd game saw his Lylia wreck havoc as the damage she brings would cause problems. UST's lineup featured an aggressive combo featuring Mathilda and Hylos, but the bombs from Lylia would be too much for them.
And while he has taken over the spotlight with his overall performances, the other members also made crucial plays to ensure the team's victory.
UST thought that they could go for the final push in Game 2, but John Zell Bartolo's Minoan Fury would deny the Growling Tigers.
In the end, Arohn Jen Cabigting, John Zell Bartolo, John Lawrence Chavez, Ariel Markjelo Dolar, Ryan-ver Federizo, and Elijah Mark Vilaray are the 1st UAAP champions in Mobile Legends: Bang Bang.
It was a long and painful road for the UE Red Warriors who had a lot of up-and-downs in their journey. During the post-match interview, one of the members broke down in tears.
But despite the struggles, they went on with their journey and defied a lot of expectations, a perfect way to reach their Zenith.
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