Tatay Rudy’s shuts down U.P. Legends in endgame, rules Tunob Cup

Sports

TATAY Rudy’s has once again proven that defense certainly wins championship.

Tatay Rudy’s used a suffocating defense down the stretch to turn back the U.P. Legends, 48-46, and ruled the University of the Philippines (UP) Cebu Alumni Basketball League Season 4 “Tunob Cup” last Saturday, November 30, at the UP Cebu High School gym.

Known for being an outstanding defensive team, the U.P. Legends appeared ready to spoil Tatay Rudy’s drive for a third title when it surged late in the championship match.

Tatay Rudy’s, however, gave its opponent a dose of its own medicine, mounting an epic defensive stand of its own and held the Legends scoreless over the final four minutes to complete the dramatic comeback.

Tatay Rudy’s, backed by businessman Jason Arquisola and Talisay City Mayor Gerald Anthony “Samsam” Gullas, moved wihtin 45-46 on made free throws by season and Finals MVP Donald Guia and Geneking Mercader.

The Legends had a chance to create more breathing space but Michael Wong missed two critical free throws with just nine seconds remaining. Mercader grabbed the rebound of Wong’s second missed gift shot and initiated a fast break, finding Gilbeys Cabrera, who then delivered a perfect pass to Jonas Panerio.

Panerio did not disappoint Cabrera’s well-timed pass, converting a layup while being fouled.

Panerio camly sank the bonus free throw, giving Tatay Rudy’s a 48-46 lead with three seconds left. The Legends had the chance to steal the win but a desperation heave was off the mark, sealing Tatay Rudy’s third title in just four seasons in what has been a dominant run in the fiercely competitive alumni league.

Guia shone brightly in the championship game, leading the way with 14 points, 10 rebounds, three assists, and a steal while earning a spot on the tournament’s Mythical Five. Panerio added seven points, three rebounds, and three steals, while Mercader contributed six points and eight boards, including the pivotal rebound that set up the game-winning sequence.

In the battle for third place, the Lethals outgunned DosMil, 92-81, in a high-scoring affair to claim the consolation prize.(CCM)