UP Cebu alumni basketball league: ARQ-Tatay Rudy’s reclaims throne as champions

CEBU, Philippines — The ARQ Builders–Tatay Rudy’s is back as champions of the University of Philippines (UP) Cebu Alumni Basketball League.

Fueled by stellar performances from Donald Guia and Gilbeys Cabrera, ARQ-Tatay Rudy’s trounced the UP Legends, 68-50, in their lopsided final match to rule the league’s Season 3 over the weekend at the Sacred Heart Center Sports Club along D. Jakosalem Street in Cebu City.

Guia filled the stat sheet with 19 points, six rebounds, five assists, and two blocked shots in an all-around hardcourt brilliance for Tatay Rudy’s that earned him the Finals MVP honors on top of his Mythical Five award.

Likewise, Cabrera figured prominently with 14 markers and six boards. He also made his presence felt with his tenacious perimeter defense.

Tatay Rudy’s, backed up by Jason Arquisola of the ARQ Builders, Erwin Ngo of Dynacast, Kenneth Cadungog of Simple Blends, and Rafael Alcoseba of RUS, shut down their opponents top guns with their stifling defense all throughout the 40-minute match.

That strategy did wonders for Tatay Rudy’s, which held the UP Legends to a paltry 33 percent shooting from the field.

Ric de la Rosa, the season MVP, was handcuffed to a measly six points while Junie Alejandro was limited to only nine points after making only 3-of-16 from the field.

Tata Rudy’s kept their offense going from the outset, never looking back after racing to a fast 15-6 start.

The Legends narrowed down the deficit to only seven, 27-20, at the break but Guia and Rene Abcede put their acts together to restore Tata Rudy’s double-digit edge, 43-32, entering the final stretch.

It was cruise control for Tatay Rudy’s from there onwards on the way to grabbing their second crown in the last three seasons of the tournament showcasing the hoop talents of UP Cebu graduates.

Furthermore, it was a sweet redemption for the team after getting axed in the semifinals last year. — (FREEMAN)