CEBU, Philippines - The University of San Carlos Baby Warriors showed bigger hearts as they score an upset win against National Youth squad, 55-53, to win the championship of the 1st Paref Springdale Basketball Invitational at Paref Springdale Gym.
The USC Warriors started their successful campaign with a 41-36 victory over Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu, but they were defeated by the taller National team, 58-76, in their second game of the elimination round.
USC immediately bounced back scoring back-to-back wins against host team Paref Springdale Titans and San Isidro Parish School.
With a 3-1 win-loss record, the Baby Warriors was able to get the second slot in the finals and arranged another duel with National Youth squad composed of players from all over the country.
The Philippine Youth squad was taking command of the early goings of the game until USC made a gallant move and got a one-point lead behind the efforts of Briedyyn Smith, Tonton Octaviano, Jholo Pacana, Chris Rota and Neon Chavez.
With a bigger line up, the Philippine team had bigger chances of winning the title, but Baby Warriors of Coach Jaysar Esperat refuses to give up, grabbing all its chances to score while putting up a strong defense that limited their opponent’s offense.
"I commend the boys for staying focused and showing great determination to win. They played with their hearts out,” said Esperat. — Caecent No-ot Magsumbol (FREEMAN)