The 2026 Sinulog Cup Inter-collegiate basketball tournament officially commenced with a ceremonial toss by Barangay Captain Banjo Abastilla of Bulacao, Talisay City, on Monday, February 2, 2026, at the Bulacao Sports Complex. This event marked the beginning of an exciting series of games that captivated fans with intense competition and last-minute drama.
Defending Champions Prove Their Worth in Overtime Thriller
In a standout match, the defending champion Benedicto College (BC) Cheetahs demonstrated their resilience by securing a hard-fought 78-72 victory over the reigning Cesafi champions, UV Green Lancers, in an overtime classic. The Cheetahs initially built a double-digit lead in the third quarter, but UV's AJ Sacayan sparked a remarkable comeback with consecutive three-pointers, shifting the momentum.
As the game reached its climax, UV's Christian Alilin hit a crucial three-pointer to tie the score at 69-69, forcing the contest into an extra period. However, under the strategic guidance of Coach BJ Murillo, the Cheetahs elevated their performance in overtime, executing a decisive 9-3 run to secure the win and assert their determination to retain the championship title.
University of Cebu Escapes with Narrow Victory
Earlier in the day, the University of Cebu (UC) Webmasters narrowly defeated the University of San Carlos (USC) Warriors with a final score of 76-72. Led by assistant coach Calib Gawangon, UC controlled the game's tempo for the majority of the match, maintaining a steady lead through three quarters.
The Warriors, however, refused to concede easily. Players like Kyle Maglinte and James Paolo Gica found their shooting rhythm in the late stages, connecting on shots from various angles to close the gap and keep the outcome uncertain. Just as USC threatened to overturn the deficit, Ricofer Sordilla of the Webmasters delivered a clutch three-pointer, effectively sealing the victory and ensuring UC's advancement in the tournament.
This opening day of the Sinulog Cup not only showcased high-level basketball talent but also highlighted the competitive spirit and sportsmanship among the participating colleges, setting the stage for more thrilling encounters in the days to come.
