The University of the Philippines Cebu Fighting Maroons finally broke their losing streak with a heart-stopping 66-64 victory over the University of Southern Philippines-Foundation Panthers in the Cesafi men's basketball tournament on Wednesday, November 26, 2025.
Dramatic Comeback at Cebu Coliseum
After nearly two months without a win, the UP Cebu squad delivered an electrifying performance at the Cebu Coliseum that featured nine lead changes and three deadlocks throughout the intense matchup. The Fighting Maroons had previously stunned the basketball community with their upset victory over league-leading University of Cebu Webmasters last September 30, but had since suffered a string of losses that dropped them to the bottom of the standings.
With this crucial win, UP Cebu improved their season record to 2-10, now tied with USPF in the team rankings. The victory marks only their second win since that surprising September upset that was considered one of the season's most unexpected underdog triumphs.
Game of Two Halves
The Panthers dominated the first half, establishing a 33-26 lead by halftime. However, the game completely turned around in the third quarter as UP Cebu exploded for 22 points while limiting USPF to just 11 points. This remarkable shift allowed the Fighting Maroons to enter the final period with a 48-44 advantage.
USPF team captain Paulo Dalumpines sparked hope for his team early in the fourth quarter, leading a 6-0 rally that put the Panthers ahead 50-48. But UP Cebu quickly responded with an 8-1 run powered by Kent Joshua Cabanlit, Marco Mamaloto, and Willy Cliyod Castro, reclaiming control at 56-51 with 5:51 remaining on the clock.
Star Performances and Final Standings
Joaquin Zaldivar emerged as the hero for UP Cebu, delivering a powerful double-double performance with 18 points and 18 rebounds. Rafael Fifth Arradaza also contributed significantly with 12 points to the winning effort. For the Panthers, Janjan Peteros and John Miguel Maglasang led the scoring with 12 points each.
Despite USPF's attempts to mount another comeback in the crucial final minutes, time ultimately ran out, sealing UP Cebu's hard-fought victory in one of the most exciting games of the Cesafi tournament season.
High School Division Update
In the high school division, the University of Cebu Lapu-Lapu/Mandaue Webmasters strengthened their position for a twice-to-beat advantage in the Final Four by defeating the Baby Panthers 79-69. The victory improved UCLM's record to 7-2, giving them temporary leadership in a tight race that includes Cebu Eastern College, defending champions Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu Magis Eagles, and darkhorse Cebu Institute of Technology-University Junior Wildcats.
Yancy Montealto earned Best Player of the Game honors after posting 20 points and 11 rebounds, while Rafael Calo matched his scoring output with 20 points. Angel Cayobit recorded another double-double with 12 points and 18 rebounds. For USPF, the loss dealt a significant blow to their Final Four hopes, dropping their record to 5-4.
