The Chase Tower Runs (CTR) are the new kings of Cebu City's holiday hoops scene. The team secured its first major semi-commercial title by defeating Blancas Golden Knight, 76-71, in a nail-biting championship game of the 2025 Cebu City Christmas League.
Cabanero's Fourth Quarter Heroics Seal the Deal
The finals clash, held on Sunday, December 21, 2025, at the City Sports Institute Gym in Barangay Sawang Calero, lived up to its hype. CTR found itself in a tough spot early, trailing by as many as 12 points in the opening period. The situation grew more dire in the fourth quarter when Blancas built a 64-57 lead with just 7:31 left on the clock.
That's when team captain and Finals MVP Nic Cabanero took over. The prolific scorer from the UAAP's UST Growling Tigers ignited a decisive 7-0 run. He scored two consecutive layups and then dished a crucial assist to Jared Bahay for a three-pointer, knotting the score at 64-all with 5:08 remaining.
Team Effort Culminates in Undefeated Run
The victory was cemented by the combined efforts of CTR's supporting cast. Veteran big man Will McAloney, alongside Emman Calo and Kenny Rocacurva, made key plays down the stretch to close out the win. Rocacurva posted a strong double-double of 18 points and 10 rebounds, while Jun Manzo added 10 points. McAloney contributed 9 points to the cause.
Cabanero, who finished with 22 points and 9 rebounds, emphasized teamwork in his post-game comments. "We played as a team, that's how we got the win," he said. "What's important is the victory." His performance capped off a tournament where he found his groove after a modest start.
Coach's Strategy and a Perfect Record
Head coach Paul Joven revealed his specific game plan for his star player. He tasked Cabanero with aggressively attacking Blancas' perimeter defense to create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates. "Once you break down the defense, it's either you score or you pass," Joven explained.
For Blancas Golden Knight, coached by Jonel Jawod, only team captain Michael Kent Salado reached double figures, tallying 14 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists. The closely contested game featured six ties and ten lead changes.
Ultimately, CTR completed the six-day tournament with an undefeated record, a feat that delighted team owner Chase Cokaliong, who was present to celebrate with his squad during the awarding ceremony.
