The University of the Visayas (UV) Baby Lancers launched their title defense in emphatic fashion, overpowering the University of San Carlos (USC) Baby Warriors, 69-39, in the opening game of the Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation Inc. (Cesafi) 15-Under basketball tournament. The match tipped off the postponed season at the USC Gym on Tuesday, January 6, 2026.
Champions Shake Off Slow Start
Coached by Ronald Bucao, the inaugural champions began the game tentatively, even trailing early in the first quarter. However, the Baby Lancers found their rhythm in the second period. They unleashed a decisive 14–5 scoring run to turn the tide, entering halftime with a commanding 29–20 lead.
From that point forward, UV never relinquished control. They continued to build on their advantage in the second half, cruising to a convincing 30-point victory. The dominant performance served as a strong early statement of their intention to retain the championship crown.
Other Opening Day Thrillers
The day's curtain-raiser set the tone for competitive action. The Cebu Eastern College (CEC) Dragons, last season's runners-up, survived a major scare from the University of San Jose–Recoletos (USJ-R) Jaguar Cubs, escaping with a 54–48 win.
The Dragons seemed in control for three quarters and even built a 10-point cushion. However, the Jaguar Cubs mounted a fierce comeback in the fourth, briefly snatching a 34–33 lead. Led by Cedric dela Rosa, who scored 16 points and dominated the boards, CEC regrouped to reclaim the lead and hold on for the win. Kristoffer Risabo supported with 12 points for the Dragons, while Matthew Eroy led the Cubs' charge with 16 points.
In other matches, it was a day of blowouts. The University of Southern Philippines Foundation (USPF) Baby Panthers delivered a crushing 68–27 defeat to the Don Bosco Technical College (DBTC) Greywolves. Meanwhile, the Cebu Institute of Technology-University (CIT-U) Wildkittens pulled off a minor upset, stunning the Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu Magis Eagles, 55-42.
Tournament Resumes After Delay
Action in the Cesafi 15-Under tournament is set to continue on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at the same venue. The league's opening was highly anticipated after the original schedule was disrupted. The tournament was initially planned to conclude in December 2025 but was postponed due to the series of calamities that struck Cebu in the latter part of last year.
The successful opening day signals a vibrant return for youth basketball in Cebu, showcasing the next generation of talent in one of the country's most passionate sports regions.
