ILOILO City – Junior Essakadoualla scored a game-winner as the Colegio de Sta. Ana de Victorias Titans escaped with an 85-84 win over the Enderun College Titans in the 24th University Games men’s basketball finals at the University of San Agustin Gym here.
Trailing by a point at 83-84, Essakadoualla converted an alley-oop dunk from a pass by a teammate to swung the CSAV ahead 19.2 seconds remaining before tightening their defense down the stretch.
Jeffrey Manday, playing his final year for his school, emerged as the player of the match for the CSAV after tallying 29 markers despite being tightly defended by Enderun players.
“I am happy to be able to win a Unigames championship in my final year,” Manday said. “It was tough because I was defended well by the Enderun players but I am happy to still contribute in the win.”
Meanwhile, College of St. Benilde Lady Blazers emerged as champions in women’s basketball after a 64-58 victory over the Enderun College Lady Titans in the gold medal match.
In men’s football, Anton Guarina scored the go-ahead goal as the University of the Philippines Maroons notched its second straight crown with a 1-0 victory over National University Bulldogs at the University of San Agustin Field in lloilo City.
Maroons head coach Andres Gonzales gave credit to his players for their consistent performance since the start of the weeklong competition to finish with an unbeaten slate.
“This group is a tight group. They really support each other very well on and off the pitch,” Gonzales said. “So I guess that also helps when we play.”/PN
