Letran outlasts FEU-D in OT Thriller; JRU and NU-NS secure wins in NGBL
Colegio de San Juan de Letran remained unbeaten in the Next Generation Basketball League (NGBL) after a dramatic 83-82 overtime victory over Far Eastern University-Diliman (FEU-D). The thrilling encounter at the Tanduay Gym in Manila marked the NGBL’s first-ever overtime game, with Letran’s World Balance Player of the Game, Daniel Padilla, delivering a standout performance with 16 points, five rebounds, two assists, and a steal.
Head coach Willie Miller, now in his second game with Letran, emphasized the importance of using such intense games as learning experiences. “These pressure games are crucial for our players’ development. The goal isn’t just to win but to learn and grow,” said Miller, who is guiding a team now missing former stars Titing Manalili and George Diamante.
Despite holding a 16-point lead (54-38) in the third quarter, Letran struggled to maintain momentum as FEU-D mounted a late comeback, forcing the game into overtime. In the decisive fifth set, FEU-D initially took a 5-1 lead, but Letran rallied behind crucial baskets from Padilla, Justin Hugo, Timo Cruz, and Syrex Silorio, who helped secure an 83-80 lead. Xyruz Gemao’s late lay-in for FEU-D cut the lead to one, but Yosef Rañeses missed a potential game-winning three-pointer, allowing Letran to escape with the win.
In other NGBL action, Jose Rizal University (JRU) edged Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) 64-62. James Almario led the Light Bombers with 26 points, 10 rebounds, and five steals. Almario dedicated his performance to his mother on her birthday, emphasizing team effort over individual skills.
For Ateneo, Chris Urbina scored 12 points and added three steals. Despite a late rally and a chance to win at the buzzer, Ateneo fell short, suffering their first defeat of the season.
National University-Nazareth School (NU-NS) dominated the University of the East (UE) with a 73-54 victory. JM Palanca and Sean Solomon led NU-NS with 13 and 12 points, respectively. The Bullpups overcame an early 2-11 deficit to build a double-digit lead, ultimately winning by 19 points. Jean Vana led UE with 13 points and 10 rebounds.
