CEBU. In a decisive Cesafi 15-under basketball showdown, the University of Southern Philippines Foundation (USPF) Baby Panthers officially clinched their semifinal playoff berth with a commanding 61-42 victory over the University of San Jose-Recoletos (USJR) Jaguar Cubs. The match unfolded at the Cebu Coliseum on Thursday, January 29, 2026, marking a pivotal moment in the tournament.
Dominant Performance Seals Semifinal Spot
With this win, the Baby Panthers improved their win-loss record to an impressive 5-2, solidifying their position in the upcoming semifinals. In contrast, the Jaguar Cubs saw their struggles continue, dropping to a dismal 1-6 record and effectively ending any hopes for a playoff push. The game highlighted the stark contrast between the two teams' fortunes this season.
Balanced Offensive Attack Leads the Way
USPF delivered a masterclass in balanced offense, with Arnold Flores leading the charge by dominating the paint. Flores finished with a game-high 16 points, showcasing his scoring prowess and control under the basket. Complementing his efforts, Isaiah Inosela provided a crucial perimeter spark, adding 10 markers to keep the Jaguar Cubs' defense on its heels throughout the contest.
Suffocating Defense Stifles Jaguar Cubs
The Baby Panthers' defense proved to be a key factor in their victory, applying relentless pressure that left USJR struggling to find a consistent offensive rhythm. Alejandro Cabanero emerged as the lone bright spot for the Jaguar Cubs, managing to score eight points in a valiant but ultimately losing effort. His performance, however, was not enough to counter USPF's defensive intensity.
The match also featured intense moments, such as when John Cedric Sasil of the USPF Baby Panthers navigated a double-team defense by the USJR Jaguar Cubs, illustrating the high-stakes nature of the competition. This victory not only secures USPF's place in the semis but also sets the stage for what promises to be an exciting playoff phase in the Cesafi 15-under tournament.
