RTU keeps UCAA cage crown

MANILA, Philippines - Most Valuable Player Jopet Quiro and Sandy Cenal tallied 19 points for defending champion Rizal Technological University yesterday as it defeated Olivarez College, 84-76, and retained its title in the 13th Universities and Colleges Athletic Association (UCAA) men’s basketball tournament.

The duo struck hard in the early part of the second half and their efforts allowed the RTU Blue Thunder to sweep their best-of-three title series at their own home-court – the RTU gymnasium in Mandaluyong City.

The Blue Thunder took Game 1, 92-90.

“This is deja vu for the team. Just like last year, dito rin sa home-court namin nakuha ang title. Defense was the key here when we focused on whatever offensive threats that came our way,” said RTU coach Johnedel Cardel. 

Meanwhile, Joshua Saret’s two free throws led Trinity University of Asia to a 79-76 win over Philippine School of Business Administration in the battle for third.

Raymark Matias made 27 points for the Stallions.

In men’s volleyball, Olivarez College prevailed over RTU, 25-11, 25-21, 16-25, 25-21, to win the crown.

Mark Ollano’s basket allowed the Sea Lions to stay ahead for the last time at 47-44.

But Cenal initiated a 6-0 run with his layup, followed up by Quiro with his barreling shot and a split free throw as the Blue Thunder grabbed a 49-47 lead.

The Sea Lions tried to remain close with Jet Lasco’s freebie at 48-49, but Rennel Montecillo scored on a triple in the last nine seconds of the third, handing the Blue Thunder a 52-48 edge heading into the final quarter.

Alvin Pronto’s putback gave RTU a 56-49 spread in the last 8:27, before Montecillo’s second trey saw the Blue Thunder taking an 11-point edge, 61-50, with 6:40 remaining.

Pruvil Bermudes made 19 points for the Sea Lions, while Ivan Moreno finished with 12 and Marvi Bustos had nine.