CBA Dragons Soar to Victory, Overpowering Maroon Panthers in a Championship Showdown
- Author: Ms. Cabañero
- Published On: May. 29, 2024
- Category:
In a highly anticipated basketball clash, the College of Business Administration (CBA) Dragons delivered an electrifying performance to defeat the College of Criminal Justice and Public Safety (CCJPS) Maroon Panthers, 84-78, at the Sto. Niño Basketball in Tagoloan on Friday.
From the opening tip-off, the Dragons displayed their trademark fast-paced offense, racing up and down the court with relentless energy. Speed and vertical were clearly the difference-makers in this game, as CBA used their lightning-fast breaks and quick transitions to outmaneuver their opponents. Time and time again, they broke down the Panthers’ defense with ease, leaving the Maroon team struggling to keep up.
The Dragons’ fast breaks were a thing of beauty, with multiple players contributing to the fast-paced offensive attack. Lomopog showcased his unparalleled ability to break down defenders, creating scoring opportunities with a slew of slick crossovers and fearless drives to the basket. But it wasn’t just Lomopog who shined. Center Joshua Igno was a force in both rebounding and defense, grabbing key rebounds. His hustle and intensity helped spark the Dragons’ transition game, ensuring the Panthers couldn’t settle into any rhythm.
In a heart-pounding finale, the mythical 5-point guard Stephen Ruella led the Maroon Panthers on an unforgettable rally that brought the team within a single point of the CBA Dragons. With time winding down, the crowd erupted as Stephen Ruella orchestrated the offense, directing his teammates with precision and hitting key inside plays that stunned the Dragons' defense. His hustle was contagious, and as CCJPS worked tirelessly on the boards, their inside scoring brought them to the brink of a comeback. As the Maroon Panthers surged, the energy in the arena reached a fever pitch. Fans, sensing the momentum shift, chanted "MALAIBA" with wild excitement—an expression of pride and hope that echoed through the stands, urging their team forward.
In a game that came down to the wire, JC Rivera proved why he’s the heart of the CBA Dragons, delivering an MVP performance that carried his team to a thrilling win. Rivera’s shooting was on fire all night, but it was his clutch three-pointers and ice-cold free throws in the final moments that sealed the victory. When the MVP was asked if there is any pressure facing the overall champion, he replied, "Naa, siyempre—among gi pangandaman among dula karon, samot na nga sila among kontra,” Rivera said after the game. His 23-point performance, marked by timely baskets and key plays, earned him the well-deserved MVP honors.
With the final buzzer signaling the victory, the CBA Dragons celebrated not only their triumph but the collective effort that fueled their success. From defense to offense, every player contributed, and it was clear that this was more than just a win on the scoreboard—it was a statement.
by Earl Rusbe Roxas