Batman And Robin Strike As Arellano Clutches 91-87 Thriller Over EAC

The Arellano University Chiefs weathered a relentless challenge from the Emilio Aguinaldo College Generals, pulling off a thrilling 91-87 victory at the Playtime Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan to secure their second consecutive win in NCAA Season 102.

T-Mc Ongotan spearheaded the Chiefs' offense with a stellar 26-point performance, constantly breaking down the Generals' perimeter defense. However, it was Basti Valencia who delivered the dagger three-pointer off an extra-pass sequence from Ongotan and Borromeo with seconds remaining to put Arellano ahead, 88-87.

The contest was a tight battle from tip-off through the midway mark of the fourth quarter.

 Driven by their hunger for a first win, the Generals kept within striking distance and matched the Chiefs' momentum. But Arellano's composure showed through during the endgame scramble, as EAC’s last-gasp play by Wilmer Oftana bounced off the rim, leading to defensive rebounds and game-sealing free throws for the Chiefs.

Arellano head coach Chico Manabat praised his squad's evolving maturity and unselfishness in high-pressure situations, highlighting the crucial pass that set up the winning shot.

"Actually, ang importante, sinabi ko sa kanila na basta kapag pinasa ni T-Mc o ni Basti Valencia, kailangan mag-deliver sila," Coach Chico Manabat emphasized, referring to the clutch extra pass sequence from Ongotan to Borromeo and out to Valencia for the go-ahead corner three.

"Alam niyo naman 'tong dalawa, parang Batman and Robin ko sila. Sila na 'yung last-year players ko, kaya sa mga ganitong endgame, 'yun talaga 'yung pinapractice namin."

With the hard-fought victory, Arellano builds serious early-season momentum following their previous win against San Sebastian, while EAC remains winless despite a valiant effort.

The Scores:

ARELLANO 91 – Ongotan 26, Vinoya 15, Valencia 14, Cabanero 8, Borromeo 6, Camay 6, Geronimo 5, Miller-Sala 5, Buenaventura 3, Libang 2, Hernal 1, Langit 0, Flores 0, Abiera 0.

EAC 87 – Bagay 16, Ochavo 15, Raymundo 14, Shanoda 14, Quinal 12, Castillo 8, Mundas 4, Oftana 2, Coronel 2, Raymundo 0, Bacud 0, Bonus 0, Numero 0, Lucero 0.

Photo Credits: NCAA Philippines Media

Photo Credits: NCAA Media