JRU captures Cebu Invitational crown, routs UC in final

CEBU CITY, Philippines — Jose Rizal University (JRU) Heavy Bombers capped their impressive preseason campaign with another championship, overpowering the University of Cebu (UC) Webmasters, 84-65, in the final of the Cebu City Collegiate Invitational Basketball Tournament on Tuesday, August 11, at the City Sports Institute in Sawang Calero.

JRU took control from the opening tip and never allowed UC to mount a serious challenge, dictating the pace on both ends of the floor throughout the game.

The Heavy Bombers, coached by Nani Epondulan, jumped to a 23-13 lead after the opening quarter before doubling down on their advantage in the second period. JRU entered halftime with a commanding 50-31 cushion.

There was no letup in the third quarter as the Heavy Bombers continued to pressure UC defensively while efficiently moving the ball on offense. Their lead ballooned to 72-43 heading into the final period.

With the championship already within reach, JRU maintained its focus in the fourth quarter and cruised to the 19-point victory.

READ: FACES OF CEBU: Lawrence Mangubat, Basketball MVP

Christopher Hubilla spearheaded the Heavy Bombers with 20 points and eight rebounds and was named Finals MVP for his efforts.

Cebuano guard Lawrence Mangubat added 14 points, knocking down four 3-pointers, while Sean Salvador and Jalen Garcia contributed 10 points apiece.

Maverick Angelo Eligoyo paced UC with 13 points, while Luther Gabriel Leonard finished with 11 and Jepherson Nonol added 10.

The championship marked JRU’s second consecutive preseason title after the Heavy Bombers also ruled the FilOil Preseason Tournament in Manila last month.

For Epondulan, the back-to-back championships provide valuable confidence for a team preparing for the upcoming NCAA season, especially after JRU finished seventh or eighth in the standings last year.

“Hopefully, we can carry this over to the forthcoming season. I think we were seventh or eighth place last year. Of course, our expectations are high after winning the championship in the FilOil, but we just want to improve every day,” Epondulan said.

Still, the veteran coach knows the Heavy Bombers cannot afford to become complacent despite their strong preseason showing.

“So far, we’re on the right path, but of course, there are still many things we need to correct and improve,” he said.

Epondulan also pointed out that JRU is still building chemistry with its revamped roster, which features eight to nine new players.

With the preseason now behind them and another trophy secured, the Heavy Bombers will turn their attention to the NCAA regular season, hoping to translate their preseason success into a deeper and more competitive campaign.

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