NCRAA: Universal College dethrones champ Arellano

MANILA, Philippines – Universal College Golden Dragons stunned the grandslam seeking Arellano University Chiefs in overtime, 71-68, Friday to snatch the 16th National Capital Region Athletic Association (NCRAA) title at the Technological Institute of the Philippines gym. Cedric Matugas scored 10 of his 15 points in the extra session including a split at the free throw line in the last five seconds of the match that sealed the Golden Dragons’ first title in the league by taking the final two games in the best-of-three championship series. “Sobrang proud ako sa mga players ko. Pinakita nila kung gaano kalaki ang puso nila. Gusto nilang manalo talaga (I am proud of my players. They showed their fighting heart. They really wanted to win)," said UC coach Yong Garcia. Orlando Daroya, who played for Bacchus Energy Drink in the Philippine Basketball League, led Arellano’s scoring with 29 points but could not guide the Leo Isaac-mentored Chiefs to win their third straight title. Matugas connected on a triple and two charities to tie the game at 65 with 2:22 left in overtime. He also scored a lay-up with 51 ticks left to give the Golden Dragons a 69-66 lead. Daroya knocked in two free throws to cut the deficit to one but that was the Chiefs’ last gasp. Earlier, the Arellano University Baby Chiefs beat Rizal Technological University Baby Thunders, 93-85, to take their third consecutive crown. Zeus Loja added 15 points for the Baby Chiefs. – GMANews.TV