After a grueling journey through the elimination and semifinal rounds, Tuburan 360 and Ecnet Pinamungajan are set to battle for the inaugural championship of the Ungas 21-Under Basketball Tournament. The highly anticipated match will take place at the Municipal Auditorium in the town of Pinamungajan on Wednesday, March 18, 2026.
Semifinal Victories Set the Stage
This championship showdown follows last Sunday's semifinal round, where both Tuburan and Pinamungajan secured decisive victories over their opponents. Tuburan, led by standout player Christian Cuevas, edged out Asturias with a final score of 90-84. Cuevas delivered an impressive performance, scoring 25 points, grabbing 10 rebounds, and dishing out five assists, earning him Best Player of the Game honors.
In the other semifinal match, Ralp Emerson Pono exploded for 38 points, along with 10 rebounds and five assists, to lead Ecnet Pinamungajan to a dominant 108-81 victory over Good Shepherd Toledo. These wins were particularly sweet for both teams, as they eliminated top-seeded opponents that had previously remained unbeaten in their respective brackets during the elimination round.
Championship Details and Tournament Background
The championship match is scheduled for 9:00 in the evening, following the third-place match between Asturias Corn Ranchers and Good Shepherd Toledo, which will begin at 7:00 p.m. The Ungas 21-Under Basketball Tournament kicked off on February 27, featuring ten teams divided into two brackets: Bracket A and Bracket B.
Organizational Support and Leadership
Pinamungajan councilor Atty. Marvin Makiling Miralles, chairman of the Sports Commission, emphasized that the competition is a private tournament supported by corporate sponsors. He also expressed gratitude for the strong support of the local government unit (LGU) of Pinamungajan under the leadership of Mayor Glenn Baricuatro. Miralles appointed Naknak Tan as commissioner to oversee the event, ensuring smooth operations and fair play throughout the tournament.
As the teams prepare for the final showdown, all eyes will be on the court where the intense rivalry between Cuevas and Pono promises to deliver an unforgettable championship match.
