In a dramatic turnaround, the University of the Philippines (UP) Cebu Fighting Maroons broke their losing streak with a hard-fought 66-64 victory over the University of Southern Philippines-Foundation (USPF) Panthers. This crucial Cesafi men’s basketball tournament win occurred on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, at the Cebu Coliseum.
A Game of Twists and Turns
The match was a rollercoaster, featuring nine lead changes and three deadlocks that kept fans on the edge of their seats. The Panthers initially controlled the game, ending the first half with a 33-26 lead. However, the third quarter saw a complete shift in momentum. UP Cebu's offense exploded for 22 points while holding USPF to just 11, allowing the Fighting Maroons to enter the final quarter ahead, 48-44.
The Panthers, led by team captain Paulo Dalumpines, started the fourth quarter strong with a 6-0 run to reclaim the lead at 50-48. UP Cebu quickly responded with an 8-1 counter-run spearheaded by Kent Joshua Cabanlit, Marco Mamaloto, and Willy Cliyod Castro, seizing back control at 56-51 with 5:51 left on the clock. Despite a late push from USPF, time ran out, sealing the victory for UP Cebu.
Standout Performances and Standings Impact
Joaquin Zaldivar was the undeniable star for the Fighting Maroons, delivering a powerful double-double with 18 points and 18 rebounds. Rafael Fifth Arradaza provided crucial support, adding 12 points to the scoreboard. For the Panthers, Janjan Peteros and John Miguel Maglasang led the scoring with 12 points each.
This win elevates UP Cebu's record to 2-10, tying them with USPF in the team standings. It marks their first victory since their stunning upset against the league-leading University of Cebu Webmasters back on September 30.
UCLM Webmasters Strengthen Final Four Bid
In the high school division, the University of Cebu Lapu-Lapu/Mandaue (UCLM) Webmasters enhanced their claim for a twice-to-beat advantage in the Final Four by defeating the USPF Baby Panthers, 79-69. This crucial win improved UCLM's record to 7-2, putting them in a temporary lead in a highly competitive race that includes Cebu Eastern College, the defending champions Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu Magis Eagles, and the Cebu Institute of Technology-University Junior Wildcats.
Yancy Montealto was named Best Player of the Game after posting 20 points and 11 rebounds. Rafael Calo also scored 20 points, while Angel Cayobit recorded a double-double with 12 points and 18 rebounds. For USPF, the loss was a significant setback for their Final Four hopes, dropping their record to 5-4. Rox Catana led the Baby Panthers with 18 points, and Luke Brent Dy added 11 points and 13 rebounds.
