CEBU, Philippines — The players of Lamac displayed a never-say-die spirit as they fended off their equally-tough rivals from Jugan by the slimmest margins in overtime, 89-88, in the deciding match of their best-of-three finals to emerge as midget category champions of the 14th Mayor Teresa “Nene” P. Alegado Cup Fiesta Basketball League in Consolacion, Cebu.
After fighting to an 82-all deadlock at the end of the regulation period, the two protagonists figured in another nip and tuck battle during the five-minute extension, leaving the thrilled spectators to wait for the final outcome with bated breath.
When the smoke cleared, Lamac of coach Edsel Vallena came out victorious by the skin of their teeth.
Cliff Raven Presbitero and Kent Bryan Mendoza shared the limelight for Lamac after combining for 44 big points. They got huge support from Kerwin Pacaldo with 18 markers.
Johh Jeffrey Broa fired 26 points for Jugan, while Gem Roxas Dabalos and Brian Catandejan scored 16 points each in a losing effort.
Meanwhile, Pulpogan drew first blood over Nangka, 103-88, in their race-to-2 duel for the senior division championship.
Chris Perolino paced Pulpogan with 23 points. Rexon Moneva and JC Escalona chipped in with 17 and 15 markers, respectively, as they moved a win away from the coveted title.