By REYNALD MAGALLON
The long and arduous wait ended with a blaze of glory as Perpetual University celebrated its first-ever NCAA Junior Basketball title with a bonfire party on Tuesday evening, April 22.
The victory party took place at the football field at the Home of the Altas with the players and coaches in attendance as they presented the elegant NCAA Season 100 trophy – their first since joining the league in 1984 – to school officials and adoring fans.
Season and Finals MVP Lebron Jhames Daep, Mythical 5 member Jan Roluna, Most Improved Player of the season Jericho Cristino, along with JD Pagulayan, Icee Callangan, Kelsey Baldoria, Aries Borja, TJ Tabbuan, and Jacob Dela Cruz were introduced one by one.
Also present were Louie Rosales, Jim Corpuz, Kurt Velasquez, Keanne Zanoria, Ezekiel Zamoras, Ryan Llupar and Lance Nitura.
Other pre-season tournament trophies 2024 NGBL (Next Generation Basketball League), Under Armour Curry 12 Invitational Championship and Season 2 of Junior MPBL U18 were also presented in the event which was also attended by students and alumni
“You made history by winning the first championship trophy in NCAA Junior Basketball,” said UPH President Dr. Anthony Tamayo as the victory celebration was also done in conjunction with the school’s 50th foundation anniversary.
“We watch you with heart inside the court, game after game and your dedication in every game, we know your journey is not easy, we thank you all for the honor you brought to Perpetual, Long live and congratulations to you Junior Altas Basketball,” he added.
