MANILA — In a nail-biting finish, Far Eastern University-Diliman outlasted National University Nazareth School 106-102 in overtime to win the UAAP Season 88 boys’ basketball championship at Ateneo’s Blue Eagle Gym on Monday.
The game was tied at 96-all at the end of regulation after Shaun Lucido calmly sank two free throws following a Yosef Rañeses foul. In overtime, FEU-D’s Cabs Cabonilas dominated with 35 points, including crucial free throws that sealed the victory for the Baby Tamaraws.
FEU-D took Game 1 with a 77-73 win, but NUNS bounced back to claim Game 2, 80-59, forcing a decisive Game 3.
“Winning now is unique compared to 28 years ago, as the game has evolved,” said FEU-D coach Mike Reyes, who previously led Ateneo to UAAP boys’ titles in Seasons 62 and 63.
Reyes noted the standout performances: “Cabs and Marc Burgos will likely continue in college basketball, but Sam Hall, Yosef Rañeses, and John Santos showed remarkable potential that may earn them collegiate opportunities.”
Cabonilas, a 6-foot-4 forward from Digos City, Davao del Sur, became the first player to capture both the regular-season and Finals MVP awards since 2002. Over the three-game series, he averaged 24 points, 12.7 rebounds, 3 assists, 2.3 blocks, and 2 steals.
“The MVPs belong to my coaches, family, and teammates. I just focused on listening and working hard for the team,” said Cabonilas, who also recorded 10 rebounds, 5 assists, 3 steals, and 3 blocks in the championship game.
This marks Cabonilas’ third UAAP title, adding to the Season 85 5-on-5 and last season’s 3×3 championships. FEU-D earned its 10th crown since Season 85 under the leadership of Janrey Pasaol, Veejay Pre, Kirby Mongcopa, and returning coach Allan Albano.
“Resiliency has been our strength all season. Even when we fell behind, our team fought back. Today’s win is a testament to that spirit,” said Khean Esperanza, who contributed 23 points. Dwyne Enriquez and Marc Burgos added 13 and 10 points, respectively.
For NUNS, Lucido led with 35 points, Corian Cabantog had 18 points and 16 rebounds, while Ronnie Matias posted 17 points, 8 assists, and 7 rebounds. Moussa Diakite added 13 points and 13 rebounds.
The graduating NUNS players this year include Matias, Sofiane Bouzina, Chad Cartel, Kurl Figueroa, Lebron Manding, Sal Mann, and Meikho Natinga.
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