University of the Philippines and Olivarez College expectedly arranged a title showdown in the PG Flex Invitational Tournament 2025 Quintana Cup after besting their respective semis rivals on Thursday, Nov. 20, at the Paco Arena in Manila.
The top-seeded UP Maroons defeated the gutsy Letran Knights, 96-80, behind another well-balanced attack, while the OC Sea Lions banked heavily on Bryan Manuel’s game-long brilliance to outlast the Centro Escolar University Scorpions, 82-78, in their respective knockout semis matches.
The winner-take-all match is set on Monday at the same venue with both teams carrying a big mission.
The final scores did not reflect how the Maroons labored early as they needed several scoring spurts in the final to prevail and extending their amazing winning run to eight games.
Determined to earn a spot in UP’s regular team – the one playing in the UAAP – Russel Ogana put on another big show, drained four triples on the way to finishing with 21 points and four rebounds.
Four other UP players logged in double figures with Josh Coronel and Arvie Poyos scoring 13 points each, while Veejay Pre and James Payosing – trumpeted as the future of the Diliman-based squad – added 11 and 10 points, respectively.
One of the star players of UCAL (Universities and Colleges Athletic League) where Olivarez College plays, the 6-foot-3 Manuel erupted for 24 points spiked by two triples. He also had 6 boards and 3 assists in another solid all-around game.
He highlighted his game with a powerful dunk against two CEU players including FSA Abraham Apugi Takpiny, sparking a roar of approval. He was ably supported Hakim Njiasse (17 points and 12 boards), Rodel Renon (16 points) and Jhon Panelo (13).
A victory on Monday would certainly give the Sea Lions the extra motivation when they defend their UCAL crown early next year.
The 9-team preseason tournament is backed by Smart Sports, Crane, Topflite, Hapee Toothpaste, Gerry’s Grill, Spalding, Mighty Bond, Best Options, Multimotors Auto Parts, Vital Water and AZI.
