Sea Lions edge Thunder, cop 1st NCRAA title

MANILA, Philippines - Liberian student John Corneh came through with several crucial plays at endgame as the Olivarez College Sea Lions nipped the Rizal Technological University Blue Thunder, 92-90, in sudden death to bag their first-ever crown in the 17th National Capital Region Athletic Association (NCRAA) men’s basketball tournament at the Pasay City Sports Complex last Wednesday.

The 6-3 Corneh scored a game-high 17 points, including a driving shot with 8.7 seconds left, as the Sea Lions ended a 17-year title drought in the cagefest backed by Mikasa and Molten Balls.

The Sea Lions forced a deciding Game 3 with an equally thrilling 110-109 win last week.

Jessie Villamor’s triple with 48.8 seconds to go kept the Blue Thunder within, 89-90. Sea Lion Marlon Vizcarra bungled an attempt in the ensuing play, but RTU’s Alwyn Elinon also missed on a fastbreak play, paving the way for Corneh’s marginal basket.

RTU actually had a chance to force overtime but the Thunder never had the chance to launch and three-point attempt as Corneh fouled John Whitfeld, who split his free throw for the final count.

Archie Reyes, named the Most Valuable Player, scored 16 points. Philip de la Cruz also had 16 while Vizcarra added 15 points.

Jerby Glorioso made 23 points for RTU.