ECNET Pinamungajan Triumphs in Ungas 21-Under Basketball League Final
In a heart-stopping showdown at the Pinamungajan Municipal Auditorium on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, ECNET Pinamungajan captured the inaugural Ungas 21-Under Basketball League title with a narrow 76-73 victory over the favored Tuburan 360 squad. The game drew a massive and enthusiastic crowd, setting the stage for an unforgettable championship clash.
Star Performers Lead the Charge
The victory was spearheaded by the dynamic duo of Ralph Emerson Pono and Jan Debutac, whose clutch plays in the final moments sealed the win. Pono delivered a stellar performance, scoring 25 points—including two critical three-pointers late in the game—and pulling down eight rebounds, earning him the prestigious Finals MVP award. Debutac complemented this effort with 23 points, highlighted by four decisive free throws in the closing seconds that ultimately secured the championship for ECNET.
A Game of Momentum Swings
ECNET faced an early deficit but gradually built momentum during the second quarter, showcasing resilience and strategic adjustments. However, Tuburan 360 mounted a fierce comeback in the fourth quarter, with key contributions from players like Egil Mortensen, John Lorenz Perales, and Charles Gemarino, who made crucial shots to keep the game tight. Despite Shinrie Wayne Menchavez dominating the paint for Tuburan, missed free throws in the final moments proved costly, allowing ECNET to seize the lead and hold on for the win.
Tournament Success and Community Impact
Atty. Marvin Miralles, Pinamungajan councilor and chairman of the Committee on Sports, lauded the tournament's overwhelming success. He noted that the turnout from residents of Pinamungajan and neighboring towns exceeded all expectations, highlighting the event's strong community engagement. The league featured 10 teams from various municipalities, fostering local sports development and camaraderie.
Miralles also emphasized that this tournament serves as a precursor to the town's upcoming Fiesta Cup in May, further boosting athletic activities in the region. He expressed gratitude for the support of Mayor Glenn Baricuatro and the local government, with assistance from tournament commissioner Naknak Tan, underscoring the collaborative effort behind the event's smooth execution.
