USPF Baby Panthers Claim NBTC Visayas Crown in Nail-Biting Finish
The USPF Baby Panthers–Playtown Exclusive emerged victorious in the 2026 Smart-NBTC Visayas Regional Championship, edging out the USJ-R Baby Jaguars with a thrilling 57–56 win. The championship game took place on Saturday, February 14, at the Tacloban City Convention Center, culminating in a celebration of gold medals and trophies for the unbeaten team.
Star Performances and Critical Moments
Luke Brent Dy led the charge for the Baby Panthers, delivering an impressive double-double with 17 points and 11 rebounds. J Lord Pepito contributed 11 points, four rebounds, and three assists, earning him the tournament's Most Outstanding Player award. The match intensified in the final minute, as USJ-R, spearheaded by Jyle Andrey Roa, narrowed the deficit to just one point with 36 seconds remaining. However, a costly double-dribble by Jan Vince Oringo in the closing seconds sealed the victory for USPF-Playtown, despite Oringo's strong performance of 11 points and 16 rebounds.
Challenges for USJ-R and Coaching Insights
USJ-R faced additional setbacks during the game, losing Krstc Ryll da Silva, who scored 11 points, due to an unsportsmanlike foul, and Fritz John Gonzales, who was ejected in the first half following technical fouls. Team owner Rowena Tubu Guidicelli expressed surprise at the outcome, stating, "We didn't expect this because USJ-R is very strong. God guided us to achieve the title." Coach Alan Cabatingan praised his players' composure, saying, "Our plan was to limit the points of their starters. The players stayed composed. It was an answered prayer," while also acknowledging his coaching staff's efforts.
Undefeated Run and National Finals Berth
The Baby Panthers completed the tournament with a flawless record, winning all seven games, including the championship. Alongside Pepito and Gonzales, other standout players named to the Mythical Team included Aldwin Calumpang Yso from Don Bosco Greywolves, Ken Cydey Gallaza from Oasis Ballers Academy, and Joebert John Pastias from Bleachers Roadstar Transit Batang Bago. Both USPF-Playtown and USJ-R have earned spots in the National Finals, scheduled for March 22–29 in Manila, where they will compete against top Under-19 teams from across the country.
