The Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation Inc. (CESAFI) 15-and-under basketball tournament is heating up, with four powerhouse teams emerging as early leaders after securing their second consecutive victories on Thursday, January 8, 2026.
Benedicto College Dominates Early
The Benedicto College (BC) Baby Cheetahs delivered a commanding performance, overpowering the Don Bosco Greywolves with a final score of 74-54 at the USC gym. The Baby Cheetahs seized control from the opening tip and never looked back, building a substantial 45-24 lead by halftime. Raphy Pasaje led the scoring charge with 14 points, while teammates Archie Enriquez and Karl Silva contributed 10 points each. For the Greywolves, Anton Sasuman was the top scorer with 10 points.
Defending Champ UV Holds Off Ateneo Rally
The defending champions, the University of the Visayas (UV) Baby Lancers, faced a tougher challenge but ultimately prevailed against the Sacred Heart School–Ateneo de Cebu Magis Eagles, 67-58. UV established a comfortable 38-24 cushion after the first two quarters. However, the Magis Eagles mounted a fierce comeback in the fourth period, narrowing the gap to just six points at 41-47. The Baby Lancers' composure was tested, but two consecutive three-pointers stopped Ateneo's momentum dead in its tracks, securing the win for UV. Mac Lebron Val Mingoy starred for the Lancers with 18 points.
CEC and CIT-U Join the Undefeated Ranks
Last year's runners-up, the Cebu Eastern College (CEC) Dragons, showcased their strength in a physical 73-52 win over the University of San Carlos (USC) Baby Warriors. Cedric dela Rosa fired 18 points as the Dragons exploded early, taking a 27-10 first-quarter lead and entering halftime ahead 39-15. Despite USC's spirited effort, coach Mark Anthony Tallo's squad maintained their offensive pressure to stay perfect.
Meanwhile, the newcomer Cebu Institute of Technology–University (CIT-U) Baby Wildcats continued their impressive debut, defeating the University of San Jose–Recoletos (USJ-R) Baby Jaguars, 68-55. John Paul Desquitado and Mak Juan Geraldez led the scoring with 14 and 12 points, respectively. "I'm very proud of the kids because they really executed our game plan — defense first, and the offense will follow," said CIT-U assistant coach Floyd Taboada, who noted the tournament's highly competitive and balanced nature.
With these results, the Baby Cheetahs, Baby Lancers, Dragons, and Baby Wildcats all improved to a perfect 2-0 win-loss record. Ateneo, USC, and USJ-R all fell to 0-2. The action continues on Saturday, January 10, at the UV gym, with the 12-under division games starting at 1 p.m. Key matchups include CIT-U versus USC and defending champion CEC taking on Ateneo, while Don Bosco will face the USJ-R Baby Jaguars in the main game.
