Jr Warriors top NCR elims, vie in SBP final

MANILA, Philippines - The University of the East Junior Warriors crushed NCRAA champion Olivarez College, 72-58, to sweep the NCR eliminations of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas and advance to the SBP Under-17 national junior finals starting today in Iloilo.

Coach Mark Herrera’s wards also blazed past St. Clare and St. Francis on their way to the NCR title and a crack at the national crown when they go up against seven other national regional finalists in the tournament organized by NCR head and SBP treasurer Ernesto Jay Adalem.

This is the second straight NCR title for the UE Junior Warriors whose stint in the SBP tournament is supported by UE president Ester Garcia, EVP Carmelita Mateo and PE director Rodrigo Roque.

“Our boys have played remarkably well in this tournament and we hope to bring home the crown for the university,” said Herrera, who is also the three-time winning coach of Junior PBA champion Talk N Text-Quezon City.

Herrera will also coach NCR Under-19 champion St. Clare in the same division of the Iloilo tournament.