UV Green Lancers and Benedicto Cheetahs Set for Championship Showdown in Talisay City
An electrifying championship clash is set to unfold tonight, February 5, 2026, as the multi-titled University of the Visayas (UV) Green Lancers and the defending champion Benedicto College (BC) Cheetahs vie for the Bulacao–Talisay City title at the Bulacao Sports Complex in Talisay City, Cebu. This highly anticipated knockout match caps off the 2026 Bulacao–Sinulog Cup Inter-Collegiate Invitational, promising a thrilling spectacle for basketball fans across the region.
Perfect Run and Dominant Victory Secure Final Spots
The Benedicto College Cheetahs, under the guidance of coach BJ Murillo, completed a flawless elimination round with a perfect 3–0 record. Their latest triumph came in a nail-biting 68–65 victory over the University of Cebu (UC) Webmasters on Wednesday, February 5, 2026. This win not only solidified their top position but also effectively dashed the title hopes of the Webmasters, who fell to a 1–2 standing.
Meanwhile, the University of the Visayas Green Lancers showcased their offensive prowess by securing their second victory in a dominant fashion. They overwhelmed the University of San Carlos (USC) Warriors with a staggering 108–55 scoreline, booking their place in the championship showdown. As a result of these decisive wins, the Cheetahs and Green Lancers will compete for the championship trophy, while UC and USC will battle for third-place honors in a separate match.
Road to the Championship: Overtime Thriller and Redemption Arc
The path to the final has been marked by intense competition and dramatic moments. In the elimination round, Benedicto College earlier pulled off a thrilling 78–72 victory over the University of the Visayas in a tightly contested encounter that extended into overtime, highlighting the competitive balance between these two teams. This sets the stage for a potential revenge narrative, as UV aims to reclaim the title they last won in 2024.
Last year, the Green Lancers faced disappointment when they were eliminated from championship contention after being knocked out by UC in the elimination round. This time, however, UV has demonstrated a renewed sense of purpose and dominance. Against USC, they raced to an early 15-point lead, finishing the second quarter at 35–20, and never looked back. High-flyer Winston Bingil led the charge with an impressive 26 points, supported by King Orcollo who added 10 points to the scoreboard.
Contrasting Comeback and Leadership on Display
In contrast, Benedicto College's journey to the championship involved a remarkable comeback story. In their win over UC, the Cheetahs found themselves trailing by 18 points in the first half. Through persistent effort and strategic adjustments, they gradually chipped away at the deficit during the third quarter. In the fourth frame, under the leadership of key players Den Ricck Orgong and Serge Grabinez, the Cheetahs exploited a small opening to secure a hard-earned victory. Orgong finished as the top scorer with 24 points, underscoring his crucial role in the team's success.
Community Celebration and Future Prospects
This four-day basketball competition is an integral part of the activities leading up to the upcoming fiesta of Barangay Bulacao in Talisay City. Organized under the leadership of Barangay Captain Banjo Abastillas and supported by his council, the event not only promotes sportsmanship but also fosters community spirit and engagement. As fans gather tonight, all eyes will be on whether UV can reclaim their former glory or if Benedicto will defend their title in what promises to be an unforgettable championship match.
