Tatay Rudy’s bags third title in UP Cebu alumni caging

CEBU, Philippines — Tatay Rudy’s staged an amazing comeback at crunch time to frustrate the U.P. Legends, 48-46, and emerge as champions of the University of the Philippines Cebu Alumni Basketball League Season 4 “Tunob Cup” at the UP Cebu High School gym recently.

Tatay Rudy’s, supported by businessman Jason Arquisola and Talisay City Mayor Samsam Gullas, held the Legends scoreless in the final four minutes on the way to grab their third crown in the league’s four seasons with a perfect 10-0 record.

After two crucial free throws by season and Finals MVP Donald Guia and Geneking Mercader pulled Tatay Rudy’s to within just a hairline, 45-46, the Legends could have stretched their lead but Michael Wong botched his charities with nine ticks left in the gameclock.

 Mercader grabbed the rebound and passed it to a streaking Gilbeys Cabrera, who then found a wide-open Jonas Panerio in the lane.

Wasting no time, Panerio went strong into the hoop and made the layup while fishing out a foul with only three seconds left in the nerve-wracking finale.

Panerio calmly hit the bonus free throw to put Tatay Rudy’s in front, 48-46.

The Legends made a desperation shot that only hit the side of backboard, leaving Tatay Rudy’s to burst into frenzied celebration.

Guia, who was also named to the Mythical 5, paced Tatay Rudy’s with 14 points, 10 rebounds, three assists, and a steal. Panerio finished with seven points, three boards and three steals, while Mercader added six points and eight rebounds.

Meanwhile, the Lethals outclassed DosMil, 92-81, to secure the third place honors.